Head Chef

Compass Group PLC; Fareham; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering organization is seeking a Head Chef to manage kitchen operations and a team at HMS Collingwood, delivering high-quality services to 300 personnel daily. The candidate must possess leadership skills, experience in a senior culinary role, and effective use of catering systems. Responsibilities include menu planning, staff management, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. This role offers competitive pay of £16.35 per hour and numerous benefits including free meals on shift and career growth opportunities.

Benefits

Free parking on site

Free meal provided

Uniform supplied

Contributory pension scheme

Discounts on travel

Wellness and mindfulness classes

Cash rewards on spending

Qualifications

• Must be computer literate and comfortable using digital systems.
• Previous experience in a Head Chef or similar senior role is essential.
• Confidence and strong leadership style required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of 6 kitchen staff.
• Plan nutritious and well-presented menus.
• Ensure compliance with food hygiene and safety regulations.
• Take responsibility for daily kitchen operations.

Skills

Leadership

Catering system use

Communication

Organizational skills

Flexibility

Education

Relevant catering qualifications

Job description

ESS is recruiting a Head Chef at HMS Collingwood, responsible for delivering high-quality catering services to approximately 300 service personnel daily. This is a busy, structured catering environment with a reduced workload during holiday periods, offering a balanced and rewarding role.

Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate, and manage a team of 6 kitchen staff, fostering a professional and positive working environment.
• Take full responsibility for daily kitchen operations, food preparation, and service delivery.
• Plan menus and ensure meals are nutritious, well‑presented, and delivered on time.
• Manage staff rotas, attendance, and performance.
• Deliver catering for seasonal functions and special events when required.
• Control ordering, stock management, and food waste.
• Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, health, and safety regulations.

Qualifications

• Use catering and rota systems effectively – computer literacy is essential.
• You are a confident, organised, and experienced culinary professional with a strong leadership style and the ability to manage a busy kitchen operation.
• Have previous experience in a Head Chef or similar senior role (essential).
• Hold relevant catering qualifications (desirable).
• Be computer literate and comfortable using digital systems.
• Demonstrate excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Be flexible to support occasional weekend and seasonal event work.

Part of Compass Group UK & I, ESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland. We support 250+ UK military establishments, high profile police, secure environments and government sites, along with a range of onshore and offshore facilities including platforms, drilling rigs, floatels and offices for the energy sector. We know that a friendly face makes all the difference, so we look for people who are passionate about delivering excellent customer service, at all levels, to join our teams.

Competitive pay at £16.35 per hour.

Benefits

• Free parking on site.
• Free meal provided on shift.
• Uniform supplied.
• Reduced workload during holiday periods.
• A stable, professional role within a respected defence catering organisation.
• 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.
• Unwind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes.
• You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families.