Head Chef

Sodexo Group; Dundee; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a vibrant culinary team as a Head Chef at one of Scotland's iconic venues. Lead the kitchen operations, deliver exceptional food experiences, and develop innovative menus while ensuring the highest standards of safety and service. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the culinary direction in a dynamic cultural destination.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience as a Head Chef or Executive Chef in similar venues.
• Knowledge of various cuisines and cooking techniques.
• Experience managing kitchen operations, including inventory and budgeting.

Responsibilities

• Maintain exceptional standards of food quality in taste and presentation.
• Develop diverse menus that reflect the venue’s ethos.
• Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations.

Skills

Menu Development

Culinary Techniques

Health and Safety Regulations

Attention to Detail

Financial Acumen

Team Leadership

Education

Relevant Culinary Certifications

Job description

VA Dundee seeks a passionate and dynamic Head Chef to lead our vibrant culinary team at this iconic venue. The successful candidate will be the driving force behind all kitchen operations, ensuring the delivery of exceptional food experiences for our daily visitors and in-house events. With a focus on quality, creativity, and attention to detail, you will oversee menu development, uphold the highest standards of food presentation and taste, and manage the chef brigade to deliver an outstanding dining experience. This is a fantastic opportunity for a talented culinary professional to shape the food offer at one of Scotland's most exciting cultural destinations.

What You’ll Do:

• Maintain exceptional standards of food quality in taste, presentation, and service.
• Demonstrate attention to detail and creative flair across all food offerings.
• Develop diverse menus that reflect the venue’s ethos.
• Ensure compliance with all legislative requirements related to Allergen Management, Food Safety, Health and Safety, and HACCP.
• Regularly cost ingredients and dishes to achieve target food GP using a robust recipe management system.
• Foster a positive, safe, and motivated working environment for the kitchen team and foster good communication with front of house staff.
• Maintain effective communication channels within the catering team.
• Achieve monthly financial targets through proactive stock control and reducing wastage.
• Ensure all Health and Safety legislation is followed, including HACCP, COSHH, fire procedures, and first aid protocols.
• Maintain food safety standards, including allergen management, customer info, and safe handling practices.
• Keep onsite risk assessments current and ensure staff are trained on legislative requirements.
• Oversee proper maintenance, cleanliness, and safety of equipment; report issues promptly.

What We’re Looking For:

• Extensive experience as a Head Chef or Executive Chef in a similar venue or culinary environment
• Knowledge of various cuisines and cooking techniques
• Experience managing kitchen operations, including inventory, ordering, and budgeting
• Track record of menu development and innovation
• Experience leading and training kitchen staff
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations and food hygiene standards
• Ability to work under pressure and handle stressful situations
• Attention to detail and high standards of quality
• Financial acumen related to cost control and profit margins
• Relevant culinary certifications or qualifications
• Knowledge of current food trends and industry innovations
• Experience with staff recruitment, training, and development

Join Heritage Portfolio and Sodexo Live! for a fulfilling career where your individuality is celebrated, your impact is valued, and your development is supported. We’re more than a team, we’re a community of experience makers.

We are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader, offering an interview scheme for qualified candidates with disabilities.

Be part of a forward-thinking organisation where Never Standing Still is more than a motto, it’s how we thrive. Apply now and take the next step in your culinary career.