Head Chef

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

Job summary

An international catering company in Carterton seeks a Head Chef to oversee culinary operations at RAF Brize Norton. The ideal candidate will manage food production, ensure hygiene standards, and maintain client relationships. Proven kitchen management experience and strong communication skills are essential. This position offers competitive hourly pay and various career development opportunities.

Benefits

On-the-job training with experienced professionals

Career development opportunities

Wellbeing Support – health app and assistance programme

Qualifications

• Proven experience in kitchen management is essential.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary.
• Knowledge of Health & Safety and Food Safety is required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee culinary operations and manage production.
• Supervise food production and hygiene standards.
• Support menu planning and ensure adherence to recipes.

Skills

Kitchen management

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Education

BSc (Catering)

City & Guilds 706/1 & 2

NVQ Level 2 or 3

Tools

MS Office

Job description

• 40 hours per week
• Monday - Friday
• £15.06 per hour
• Car parking available onsite

Job Description

Position: Head Chef at Sodexo, RAF Brize Norton, Carterton

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

• Maintain strong client and customer relationships
• Support menu planning using Recipe on Line and ensure adherence to menus and recipes
• Supervise food production, preparation, service, and hygiene standards
• Ensure correct food storage, waste reduction, and stock security
• Monitor and record food and equipment temperatures in line with the Safety Management System
• Lead opening, handover, and closing procedures, prioritising safety and security
• Maintain high personal and workplace hygiene standards
• Participate in team briefs, meetings, and performance reviews
• Report accidents, near‑misses, and equipment faults
• Maintain accurate post‑production, feeding numbers, and system updates
• Carry out any reasonable duties as required by management

What You Bring

Essential

• Proven experience in kitchen management
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to standards
• Health & Safety and Food Safety knowledge/qualification
• Competent in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Catering qualification such as:
  • BSc (Catering), MHCIM, HND
  • City & Guilds 706/1 & 2
  • NVQ Level 2 or 3
  • Intermediate Food Safety

Desirable

• Experience working in a military environment
• Previous team supervision experience
• Strong leadership qualities
• Ability to analyse problems and implement innovative solutions
• IOSH qualification or equivalent

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.