Head Chef

Sodexo Ltd; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 33,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Edinburgh is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead catering operations at their Junior School. This role requires a dynamic leader with culinary excellence and strong leadership skills to deliver exceptional food and service. The ideal candidate should have significant professional catering experience and the ability to inspire their team. This position offers a competitive salary, a work-life balance, and ample opportunities for growth and development.

Benefits

Unlimited access to online mental health support

Employee Assistance Programme

24/7 access to a virtual GP service

Sodexo Discounts Scheme

Mercer Aspire Pension Plan

Learning & development opportunities

Bike to Work Scheme

Qualifications

• Professional catering experience ESSENTIAL, in contract or large scale catering.
• Experience leading a busy, client-facing kitchen brigade.
• Strong budget management and computer literacy.

Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality catering and hospitality, exceeding client expectations.
• Lead menu planning and kitchen operations with creativity.
• Maintain the highest standards of hygiene and safety.

Skills

Culinary excellence

Leadership skills

Budget management

Food safety knowledge

Education

NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent chef qualifications

Food Safety Level 2 or above

Job description

Head Chef – Edinburgh Academy Junior School, 10 Arboretum Road, Edinburgh, EH3 5PL

Grounded in Scotland, Ready for the World

About Us:

The Edinburgh Academy is a modern, vibrant, co-educational school for 2–18 year olds. Located on two historic sites in the heart of Scotland’s capital, we provide the very best in 21st-century education. Our ethos, size, and genuine individual care make us sector-leading in supporting the unique talents, needs, and ambitions of all.

Hospitality with a Work-Life Balance
At Sodexo and Edinburgh Academy, we believe you can have a rewarding career in hospitality without constant weekend shifts or late nights. Join a passionate team, deliver exceptional service, and still enjoy your evenings and weekends to recharge.

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Head Chef to lead our catering operations at the Junior School. This is a fantastic opportunity for a dynamic leader with creativity, passion, and drive to deliver excellence in food and service.

Key Details

• Salary: £32,500 per annum
• Hours: 40 hrs per week
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7.00am–3.30pm (occasional weekend business as required)
• Enhanced PVG checks required
• Driving licence and own car essential

What You’ll Do

As Head Chef, you’ll lead from the front, combining hands-on culinary expertise with strong leadership skills to inspire your team. You will:

• Deliver high-quality catering and hospitality, always exceeding client expectations.
• Lead menu planning, food production, and kitchen operations with creativity and precision.
• Uphold the Fresh Food from Scratch philosophy across all services.
• Maintain the highest standards of hygiene, safety, and compliance.
• Manage budgets effectively and ensure cost-efficient operations.
• Train, motivate, and support your team to achieve their best.
• Champion allergen management and ensure accurate, up-to-date information is always available.
• Organise and oversee special functions and hospitality events as required.

About You

We’re looking for someone who combines culinary excellence with strong leadership skills.

You will bring:

• Professional catering experience ESSENTIAL, preferably in contract catering/large scale catering.
• Experience leading a busy, client-facing kitchen brigade.
• Strong budget management and computer literacy.
• NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent chef qualifications.
• Food Safety Level 2 or above.
• A proven ability to perform under pressure with excellent time management.
• A positive, enthusiastic, and self-motivated approach.
• Flexibility, decisiveness, and the ability to inspire others.

(Additional training such as RIPHH & IOSH Certificates is desirable—or a willingness to complete within 4 months.)

What We Offer

At Sodexo, this is more than just a job—it’s a career where you’ll be valued, supported, and empowered.

You can expect:

• Competitive salary and excellent benefits.
• Clear opportunities for growth and development.
• A diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace.
• The chance to make a real impact in an environment that values sustainability and service excellence.

Additional Perks

• Unlimited access to online mental health and wellbeing support.
• Employee Assistance Programme (legal, financial, personal support).
• 24/7 access to a virtual GP service.
• Sodexo Discounts Scheme for you, family, and friends.
• Mercer Aspire Pension Plan.
• Learning & development opportunities.
• Bike to Work Scheme.

Ready to Join Us?

If you’re a passionate, experienced Head Chef who thrives on leadership, creativity, and delivering excellence, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today and take the next step in your Sodexo journey.

Please note: Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if a high volume of applications is received.