Head Chef

Compass Group UK; Dunstable; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food service company in Dunstable is seeking a Head Chef to lead culinary operations, ensure exceptional food quality, and develop diverse menus. The ideal candidate will have experience in high-volume environments and strong leadership skills. This role includes overseeing kitchen compliance with safety legislation and managing a motivated team. Competitive benefits and a commitment to diversity are offered.

Benefits

Free meals

Onsite free car parking

Contributory pension scheme

Career development programs

Digital GP access

Exclusive travel discounts

Groceries discounts

Cinema ticket discounts

Cash rewards program

Wellness and exercise classes

Qualifications

• Proven track record as a Head Chef in a high-volume environment.
• Experience within visitor attractions and contract catering is highly desirable.
• Strong ability to maintain financial targets while ensuring quality.

Responsibilities

• Lead the culinary operation ensuring exceptional food quality.
• Oversee menu development for diverse visitor expectations.
• Recruit, train, and inspire a motivated kitchen team.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Food trends knowledge

IT and Microsoft Office skills

Job description

Role Overview

The Head Chef will lead the culinary operation across the whole site. They will ensure exceptional food quality, consistency, and presentation while delivering menus that meet diverse visitor expectations and adhere to company and contractual standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Menu Development & Innovation - Create and adapt menus that appeal to a broad visitor base, including family-friendly options, dietary requirements, and seasonal specials.
• Operational Excellence - Oversee all kitchen operations, ensuring compliance with food safety legislation, company policies, and contractual obligations.
• Leadership & Team Development - Recruit, train, and inspire a motivated kitchen team, fostering a positive and professional working culture.
• Cost Control & Profitability - Manage budgets, control wastage, and achieve GP targets without compromising quality.
• Collaboration - Work closely with front-of-house teams, site management, and the client to deliver a consistent and memorable food experience.
• Event Catering - Experience in large scale eventing.

Skills & Experience

• Proven track record as a Head Chef in a high-volume environment.
• Experience within visitor attractions and contract catering is highly desirable.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to lead by example.
• Excellent organisational skills, especially during peak periods.
• Sound knowledge of food trends, allergens, and dietary requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to achieve financial targets while maintaining high quality.
• Good IT and Microsoft Office skills.

Personal Attributes

• Passionate about food and hospitality with a strong customer focus.
• Adaptable and resilient in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment.
• Creative, commercially aware, and results-driven.
• Committed to sustainability and responsible sourcing.

Success in this Role Means:

• Visitors consistently enjoy food sold across all outlets.
• The kitchen runs efficiently, safely, and profitably.
• Staff retention and morale remain high.
• The client continues to view the catering offer as a key part of the attraction’s success.

Benefits:

We ensure you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package including but not limited to:

• Free meals
• Onsite free car parking
• Contributory pension scheme
• Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
• Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
• Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more
• Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and many more
• Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
• Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
• Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
• You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families

About Us:

Part of Compass Group UK&I, Restaurant Associates provides brilliant hospitality through our food, drink and services. We work with our partners and collaborate with our clients to achieve great things together. Every day, our teams of passionate hospitality professionals strive for excellence in delivering employee dining and hospitality to some of the UK's leading workplaces as well as inspiring exceptional experiences in iconic cultural and heritage destinations.

Venues:

Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!