Head Chef

Sodexo Group; Abingdon; On-site; GBP 41,971,000 - 46,287,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-the-job training with experienced

Fully funded apprenticeship

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Sodexo is seeking a Head Chef at Dalton Barracks, Abingdon, to lead the culinary team and oversee high-volume meal production for armed forces personnel.

You will manage the kitchen, plan menus, and ensure quality, safety, and efficient operations in a dynamic environment. The role emphasizes leadership, training, and collaboration with FOH to deliver exceptional dining experiences.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts or equivalent experience in a high-volume kitchen.
• Proficiency in IT and Microsoft Office.
• Extensive knowledge of food production methods and quality.
• Understanding of allergens and safe dining practices.
• Strong leadership and development abilities.
• Attention to detail and high standards.
• Ability to manage performance and support colleagues.
• Thrive under pressure and accept feedback.
• Excellent organizational skills to manage a busy workload.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the culinary team, ensuring smooth daily operations.
• Oversee and delegate to sous chefs and kitchen staff to maintain efficiency.
• Schedule on and off-duty shifts to balance morale and productivity.
• Ensure compliance with Environmental Health and Safety guidelines.
• Plan and execute menus following military dining rotations.
• Adjust menus to minimize waste and optimize stock.
• Manage inventory and stock levels to meet client expectations.
• Collaborate with Front of House management to enhance dining.
• Train staff to uphold Sodexo standards.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

IT Skills

Team Management

Education

NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

• 35 hours per week


• 5 Days out of 7


• Early - 06:00 - 14:00 & Late - 12:00 - 20:00


• £16.74 per hour


• Free Parking

Check your local transport links here: Plan Your Journey | Traveline - the destination you should input is Abingdon, OX13 6JB

Job Description:

Position: Head Chef at Sodexo, Dalton Barracks, Abingdon, OX13 6JB

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

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 on and off-duty shifts for your team, fostering a balanced work-life environment to maintain morale and productivity.


• Ensure strict adherence to all Environmental Health and Safety (EHO) guidelines and monitor sanitation practices to guarantee compliance with health and safety regulations.


• Plan and execute menus, ensuring variety and quality while following the set military dining rotations.


• Make adjustments to menus as needed, optimizing the use of available stock and minimizing waste.


• Manage inventory and stock levels, ensuring meal presentation meets Sodexo and client expectations.


• Collaborate with Front of House (FOH) management to drive service excellence and elevate the overall dining experience.


• Train and develop your team, ensuring they are regularly refreshed on client and Sodexo standards.

What You Bring:

• NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts or equivalent experience working in a high-volume kitchen environment.


• Proficiency in IT, excellent communication skills, and experience with Microsoft Office packages.


• Extensive knowledge of food production methods, with a focus on consistency and quality.


• In-depth understanding of allergens and the necessary precautions to ensure safe dining for all.


• Exceptional leadership abilities, with a focus on motivating and developing a team.


• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards.


• Ability to manage your own performance and support colleagues to do the same.


• Ability to thrive under pressure, accept feedback, and continuously improve.


• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage a busy 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 - Unlimited online resources, a free health app with 24/7 virtual GP, and an Employee Assistance Programme.


• Financial Benefits - Discounts for you and your family, salary finance support, retirement plan, and a death-in-service benefit.


• Career Growth - Apprenticeships, learning tools, and development opportunities.


• Work Perks - Cycle to Work Scheme, volunteering opportunities, flexible work, full training, and a protective uniform.

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

Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we are in receipt of a high number of applications