Head Chef

Sodexo Group; Oxford; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading hospitality services provider in Oxford is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead their catering operations. You will manage food production, mentor a small team, and ensure adherence to health and safety practices. The role offers a supportive work environment with a focus on work-life balance, making it ideal for passionate culinary leaders. Competitive salary and excellent benefits are included.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Clear opportunities for growth and development

Employee Assistance Programme

Bike to Work Scheme

Qualifications

• Professional catering experience ESSENTIAL, preferably in similar role or contract catering.
• Experience of managing and motivating a small team.
• A proven ability to perform under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Manage production and service of food according to service level agreements.
• Mentor and motivate the team to achieve their goals.
• Responsible for planning costed menus and managing budgets.

Skills

Culinary excellence

Leadership skills

Budget management

Hands on approach

Attention to detail

Education

NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent chef qualifications

Intermediate food hygiene certificate

Tools

Basic Excel

Word

Outlook

Job description

Head Chef – LVS Oxford, Spring Hill Road, Begbroke, Oxford, OX5 1RX

About Us:

The LVS Oxford is a specialist school, offering day placements to young people with autism aged 11-18. With a structured educational environment and an approach that focuses on developing young people’s independence and confidence, we equip students with the skills needed for academic success, employment and dealing with everyday life.

Our ethos, structured educational environment and an approach make us sector‑leading in supporting our students to gain confidence, make meaningful progress and achieve their ambitions.

Minimal Hospitality with a Work‑Life Balance
At Sodexo and LVS Oxford, we believe you can have a rewarding career in hospitality without constant weekend shifts or late nights. Join a passionate team, deliver exceptional service, and still enjoy your evenings and weekends to recharge.

The Role:

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Head Chef to lead our catering operations at the LVS Oxford School. This is a fantastic opportunity for a dynamic leader with creativity, passion, and drive to deliver excellence in food and service.

• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 07:00am – 15:00pm
• Term time only
• Free car parking on site, meals whilst on duty
• Driving licence and own car essential

What You’ll Do:

As Head Chef, you’ll manage the production and service of food and hospitality according to the service level agreement whilst adhering to the company and client directives by:

• Producing core feeding and hospitality menus, complying with company and legal food safety practices
• Adhering to and completing allergen management paperwork with daily preservice briefing
• Ensuring completion of daily due diligence records following company and legal health and safety practises.
• Be responsible for all aspects of stock management, including ordering, rotation, storage, and labelling
• Mentor and motivate the team to achieve their goals and objectives.
• Be responsible for planning costed menus, rotas, orders, theme days and promotions.
• Liaise with the GSM to manage the unit food budget
• Assist the GSM in achieving financial targets, providing costings and completing production and wastage records
• Always be a brand ambassador for Sodexo
• Attend appropriate training courses, conferences and meetings as directed by the company or client
• Undertake occasional duties outside the normal routine as required within the scope of the position and unit activities
• Manage food production with fluctuating levels whilst maintaining standards and achieving budget
• Managing diverse needs of SEN pupil requirements using innovation and initiatives
• Staying engaged within a small team
• Be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adhere to and always ensure compliance with Sodexo’s and the client’s Child Protection Policy Statement.

About You:

We’re looking for someone who combines culinary excellence with strong leadership skills fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment.

You will bring:

• Professional catering experience ESSENTIAL, preferably in similar role or contract catering.
• Experience of managing and motivating a small team
• Hands on approach to the role
• Strong budget management and Basic IT skills, and ability to work with basic Excel, Word and Outlook.
• NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent chef qualifications.
• Intermediate food hygiene certificate
• A proven ability to perform under pressure with excellent time management and show attention to detail.
• Flexible and positive approach to the role

What We Offer:

At Sodexo, this is more than just a job—it’s a career where you’ll be valued, supported, and empowered.

You can expect:

• Competitive salary and excellent benefits.
• Clear opportunities for growth and development.
• A diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace.
• The chance to make a real impact in an environment that values sustainability and service excellence.
• Unlimited access to online mental health and wellbeing support.
• Employee Assistance Programme (legal, financial, personal support).
• 24/7 access to a virtual GP service.
• Sodexo Discounts Scheme for you, family, and friends.
• Bike to Work Scheme.

Ready to Join Us?

If you’re a passionate, experienced Head Chef who thrives on leadership, creativity, and delivering excellence, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today and take the next step in your Sodexo journey.

Please note: Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if a high volume of applications is received.

**Sodexo and our Clients are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Certain roles will require applicants to undergo screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (UK) and / or Disclosure Scotland (Scotland)**