Head Chef

Sodexo Group; Abingdon; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading company as a Head Chef, overseeing culinary operations and delivering high-quality meals for armed forces personnel. This role involves managing a culinary team, menu planning, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards, alongside career development opportunities and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

On-the-job training

Fully funded apprenticeship qualifications

Career development opportunities

Wellbeing support

Financial benefits including discounts and retirement plan

Cycle to Work Scheme

Flexible work options

Protective uniform provided

Qualifications

• Experience in a high-volume kitchen environment.
• Proficient in IT with excellent communication skills.
• Strong knowledge of allergens and food safety.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the culinary team, ensuring smooth operations.
• Plan and execute menus while ensuring adherence to safety guidelines.
• Train and develop team members regularly on standards.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational Skills

Attention to Detail

Food Production Methods

Education

NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Position: Head Chef at Sodexo, Dalton Barracks.

As a Head Chef at Sodexo, you will play a key role in overseeing culinary operations and managing the production of food and beverages for armed forces personnel. Your expertise will ensure the delivery of high-quality meals that contribute to operational success and morale.

What You'll Do:

• Lead and manage the culinary team, ensuring smooth daily operations and providing guidance to the production team.
• Oversee and delegate responsibilities to sous chefs, commis chefs, chef de parties, and other kitchen staff to maintain efficiency.
• Schedule shifts for your team, fostering a balanced work-life environment to maintain morale and productivity.
• Ensure adherence to Environmental Health and Safety (EHO) guidelines and monitor sanitation practices to guarantee compliance.
• Plan and execute menus, ensuring variety and quality while following military dining rotations.
• Adjust menus as needed, optimizing stock use and minimizing waste.
• Manage inventory and stock levels, ensuring meal presentation meets Sodexo and client expectations.
• Collaborate with Front of House management to drive service excellence and enhance the dining experience.
• Train and develop your team, ensuring they are regularly refreshed on standards.

What You Bring:

• NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts or equivalent experience in a high-volume kitchen environment.
• Proficiency in IT, excellent communication skills, and experience with Microsoft Office.
• Extensive knowledge of food production methods, focusing on consistency and quality.
• Understanding of allergens and safety precautions for all diners.
• Exceptional leadership skills, motivating and developing a team.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to high standards.
• Ability to manage performance and support colleagues.
• Ability to work under pressure, accept feedback, and improve continuously.
• Strong organizational skills to prioritize tasks and manage workload.

What We Offer:

• On-the-job training with experienced professionals.
• Fully funded apprenticeship qualifications.
• Career development opportunities within Sodexo.
• A friendly and supportive work environment.
• Wellbeing support, including online resources, a free health app with 24/7 virtual GP, and Employee Assistance Programme.
• Financial benefits such as discounts, salary support, retirement plan, and death-in-service benefit.
• Career growth through apprenticeships and learning tools.
• Work perks including Cycle to Work Scheme, volunteering, flexible work, full training, and protective uniform.

Join us and be part of a company that values its employees and offers real career growth opportunities.