Head Chef

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

Job summary

A leading global services provider in the UK seeks an experienced chef to join their hospital team in Cootham. This role features a strong emphasis on work-life balance, offering only 1.5 weekend shifts every three weeks. You will lead a small team, maintain high hygiene standards, and prepare quality meals for patients and staff. Ideal candidates will have relevant culinary qualifications and a passion for food. Opportunities for professional growth and wellbeing support are also provided.

Benefits

Discounted gym membership

Employee Assistance Programme

Discounts on high street brands

Health and wellbeing app

Mental health resources

Opportunities for further qualifications

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a chef, ideally in healthcare or a similar environment.
• Computer literacy and good financial awareness.
• A desire to deliver outstanding service.

Responsibilities

• Lead a small team to deliver meals to in-patients and staff.
• Ensure patient satisfaction through direct liaison with ward supervisor.
• Maintain top hygiene and food safety standards.
• Manage kitchen operations, including ordering and compliance.
• Prepare fresh, scratch-cooked meals.
• Support and develop team members' skills.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Craft and presentation skills

Teamwork

Positive attitude

Education

City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or equivalent

Level 3 Hygiene Certificate

Job description

Looking for a chef role that offers real work-life balance, professional growth, and a supportive team? This is a phenomenal opportunity for someone ready to take the next step in their culinary career-or for a passionate chef who loves to cook but wants a lifestyle not often available in the industry. At Nuffield Health: Haywards Heath Hospital, you'll join a small, friendly team where your skills are valued and your wellbeing matters. With only 1.5 weekend shifts every 3 weeks, discounted gym membership, and whites supplied and laundered, this role is designed to support both your career and your life outside of work.

• Lead a small, close-knit team to deliver breakfast, lunch, and dinner for around 15 in-patients daily, plus staff meals and cold sandwich provisions for day patients-all to the highest standards.
• Liaise directly with the ward supervisor to ensure seamless service and patient satisfaction.
• Maintain top hygiene and food safety standards (aiming for 5-star EHO and Safeguard Green audits).
• Manage kitchen operations, including ordering, stock control, compliance, and staff rotas.
• Prepare fresh, scratch-cooked meals using central menus.
• Support and develop your team, identifying training needs and helping others grow.
• Deputise for the Client Services Manager as needed.
  Previous experience as a chef, ideally in healthcare or a similar environment.
• Excellent craft and presentation skills, with a passion for fresh, quality food.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or equivalent, plus Level 3 Hygiene Certificate.
• Computer literacy and good financial awareness.
• A positive, team-focused attitude and a desire to deliver outstanding service.
  Work-Life Balance: Only 1.5 weekend shifts every 3 weeks-unbeatable for chefs!, Employee Assistance Programme (including financial/legal advice and personal support) and Discounts on high street brands for you and your family.
• Wellbeing: Discounted membership at Nuffield Crawley gym, Free health and wellbeing app with 24/7 virtual GP access and Entitlement to mental health and wellbeing resources.
• Development: Opportunities to undertake further qualifications and training.
• Team: Work with a small, friendly, and supportive team where your contribution is truly valued.
• About Sodexo. At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone to build a better life for all. As the global leader in services that improve the Quality of Life, we operate in 55 countries, serving over 100 million consumers each day through our unique combination of Onsite Food and FM Services, Benefits and Rewards Services and Personal and Home Services.