Head Chef

Sodexo Group; High Wycombe; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading company as a Head Chef at RAF High Wycombe, where you'll oversee culinary operations and manage a team to deliver high-quality meals for armed forces personnel. This role offers opportunities for career growth, on-the-job training, and a supportive work environment, all while ensuring adherence to health and safety standards.

Benefits

On-the-job training

Fully funded apprenticeship qualifications

Career development opportunities

Wellbeing support

Financial benefits

Work perks including Cycle to Work Scheme

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts or equivalent experience in high-volume kitchens.
• Proficiency in IT and Microsoft Office.
• Extensive knowledge of food production focusing on consistency and quality.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the culinary team, ensuring smooth daily operations.
• Plan and execute menus, ensuring variety and quality.
• Train and develop your team, ensuring compliance with standards.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Resilience under pressure

Education

NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Position: Head Chef at Sodexo, RAF High Wycombe

As a Head Chef at Sodexo, you will oversee culinary operations and manage food and beverage production for armed forces personnel. Your expertise will ensure the delivery of high-quality meals that support operational success and morale.

What You'll Do:

1. Lead and manage the culinary team, ensuring smooth daily operations and providing guidance.
2. Oversee responsibilities of sous chefs, commis chefs, chef de parties, and other kitchen staff to maintain efficiency.
3. Schedule shifts for your team, fostering a balanced work-life environment.
4. Ensure adherence to Environmental Health and Safety (EHO) guidelines and monitor sanitation practices.
5. Plan and execute menus, ensuring variety and quality per military dining rotations.
6. Adjust menus as needed, optimizing stock use and minimizing waste.
7. Manage inventory and stock levels, ensuring meal presentation meets standards.
8. Collaborate with Front of House management to enhance service quality.
9. Train and develop your team, ensuring compliance with standards.

What You Bring:

1. NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts or equivalent experience in high-volume kitchens.
2. Proficiency in IT and Microsoft Office; excellent communication skills.
3. Extensive knowledge of food production, focusing on consistency and quality.
4. Understanding of allergens and safety precautions.
5. Leadership skills, with a focus on motivating and developing teams.
6. Attention to detail and high standards.
7. Ability to manage performance and support colleagues.
8. Resilience under pressure, receptiveness to feedback, and a desire for continuous improvement.
9. Strong organizational skills to prioritize tasks and manage workload.

What We Offer:

1. On-the-job training with experienced professionals.
2. Fully funded apprenticeship qualifications.
3. Career development opportunities within Sodexo.
4. A friendly and supportive work environment.
5. Wellbeing support including online resources, a health app, and Employee Assistance Programme.
6. Financial benefits such as discounts, salary support, retirement plan, and death-in-service benefit.
7. Career growth through apprenticeships and learning tools.
8. Work perks including Cycle to Work Scheme, volunteering, flexible work, training, and uniforms.

Join us and be part of a company that values its employees and offers real career growth opportunities.