Head Chef

Holroyd Howe; Brackley; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering service provider in Brackley is hiring an experienced Head Chef to lead kitchen operations and create innovative menus. The ideal candidate will have a culinary degree and proven leadership skills, with an ability to mentor staff and ensure compliance with food safety standards. This role offers career development opportunities, competitive salary, and employee benefits. Join us in making a positive impact by serving nutritious meals to children in a dynamic environment.

Benefits

Free meals whilst at work

Career development opportunities

HIT Apprenticeships

Reward & recognition schemes

Work/life balance

28 Holiday days inclusive of bank holidays

Pension scheme

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of cooking techniques and food presentation.
• Ability to lead and mentor a kitchen team.
• Proficiency in kitchen management and inventory systems.
• Strong creative skills for menu innovation.
• Understanding of health regulations and best practices.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all kitchen operations and ensure quality control.
• Develop innovative menu items based on trends.
• Manage inventory and optimize kitchen efficiency.
• Collaborate with management to enhance customer satisfaction.
• Analyze customer feedback and improve kitchen processes.

Skills

Culinary degree or equivalent certification

Proven experience as a Head Chef

Knowledge of various cuisines

Leadership and team management skills

Organizational and multitasking abilities

Creativity in menu development

Understanding of food safety standards

Communication and interpersonal skills

Ability to work under pressure

Problem-solving skills

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Tools

Kitchen management software

Job description

Company Description

34,500 per annum - 52 week contract / 40 hours per week

Holroyd Howe is one of the UK’s leading contract caterers, providing fresh innovative food services solely to independent schools and colleges. We are a team of experienced professionals who tailor our catering service provision specifically to suit children of all ages in order to meet the bespoke requirements of each school.

Can you commit to feeding hungry tummies as well as hungry minds? We serve more than just a meal in our kitchens, so are you the exceptional Head Chef we’re looking for?

If you are looking for an employer that will invest in you and develop your career further, then look no further and apply!

Job Description

We are seeking a visionary and experienced Head Chef to join our culinary team in Brackley, United Kingdom. As the Head Chef, you will lead our kitchen operations, create innovative menus, and ensure the highest standards of food quality and presentation. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate culinary professional to make their mark in a dynamic and customer-focused environment.

• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including menu planning, food preparation, and quality control
• Develop and implement innovative menu items, considering seasonal ingredients and culinary trends
• Lead, mentor, and train kitchen staff to maintain a high-performing and collaborative team
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards, health regulations, and sanitation procedures
• Manage inventory, control costs, and optimize kitchen efficiency
• Collaborate with the management team to achieve organizational goals and enhance customer satisfaction
• Participate in menu tastings, special events, and culinary initiatives to showcase the restaurant's offerings
• Maintain strong relationships with suppliers and vendors to source high-quality ingredients
• Continuously improve culinary techniques and stay updated on industry trends
• Analyze customer feedback and make necessary adjustments to menu items and kitchen processes

Qualifications

• Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification in culinary arts
• Proven experience as a Head Chef or in a similar senior culinary role
• Extensive knowledge of various cuisines, cooking techniques, and food presentation
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities, with a keen eye for detail
• Proficiency in kitchen management software and inventory systems
• Creativity and innovation in menu development and food presentation
• In-depth understanding of food safety standards, health regulations, and best practices
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure in a fast-paced environment
• Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability to changing situations
• Passion for culinary excellence and commitment to customer satisfaction

Additional Information

There are many advantages to working for us and we provide our employees with bespoke benefits which include:

• Free meals whilst at work
• Career development opportunities
• HIT Apprenticeships for all experience levels
• Reward & recognition schemes
• People awards to celebrate our employees
• Work/life balance
• Employee Benefits Platform
• Employee Assistance Program
• Recommend a friend scheme
• Company sick pay scheme
• Prestigious working environments
• Team events scheduled throughout the year
• 28 Holiday days inclusive of bank holidays
• Pension scheme
• Competitive salary

We invest in the training and development of our teams to give them the appropriate skills necessary to thrive in their job roles. We have outstanding teams of experienced professionals who tailor our catering service provision specifically to suit children, of all ages, meeting the bespoke requirements of our clients.

“Holroyd Howe is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all employees to share this commitment. All roles within Holroyd Howe are regarded as regulated activity and therefore we require an Enhanced DBS which includes a Barred List Check for all successful applicants. We will also require shortlisted applicants to provide appropriate information regarding their criminal offences.”

This appointment is offered on the return of satisfactory professional references.

DBS check required for the Head Chef role at Winchester House School , Brackley start date January 2026

IND3