Head Chef

Sodexo Ltd; Basingstoke; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food services company is looking for a Head Chef at RAF Odiham. In this role, you will manage the culinary team, plan menus, and ensure high-quality meal delivery for armed forces personnel. Ideal candidates should have NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts and extensive kitchen experience. The position offers training, career development, and various financial perks.

Benefits

On-the-job training

Fully funded apprenticeship qualifications

Career development opportunities

Wellbeing Support

Financial Benefits

Work Perks

Qualifications

• Proficiency in IT and excellent communication skills.
• Extensive knowledge of food production methods with a focus on quality.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to high standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the culinary team, ensuring smooth operations.
• Plan and execute menus, ensuring variety and quality.
• Manage inventory and stock levels.

Skills

Leadership

Food production methods

Communication

Organizational skills

Education

NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

• 37.5 hours per week
• 5 days out of 7
• £15.22 per hour
• Car parking onsite

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Lead with Passion. Cook with Purpose.

Position: Head Chef – Sodexo, RAF Odiham | Hook,Hampshire

Are you a talented and driven chef ready to take the lead in a fast-paced, rewarding environment? Join Sodexo as Head Chef at RAF Odiham, where your culinaryskills will directly support the wellbeing and morale of our armed forcespersonnel.

Inthis pivotal role, you’ll be at the heart of our kitchen operations—planning,leading, and delivering high-quality meals that fuel those who serve. If you'reready to bring your creativity, leadership, and passion for food to a role withreal impact, we’d love to hear from you.

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What You'llDo:

• 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 minimising 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, a 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 itsemployees and offers real career growth opportunities.