Head Chef

Compass Group UK; Scotland; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as a Head Chef, where you will lead a dynamic kitchen team and ensure the delivery of high-quality meals. This role offers the opportunity to manage kitchen operations, oversee menu planning, and maintain health and safety standards. With a commitment to professional development and a supportive work environment, you will thrive in a position that values your culinary expertise and leadership skills. If you are passionate about food and ready for a new challenge, this is the perfect opportunity for you to shine.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits

Work-life balance with structured shifts

Uniform and PPE provided

Ongoing training and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef in a high-volume catering environment.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.

Responsibilities

• Leading the kitchen team, ensuring high standards of food quality.
• Managing stock, labour, and resources efficiently.

Skills

Leadership

Team Management

Problem-Solving

Food Safety Standards

Stock Management

Education

NVQ Level 3 or City & Guilds 706/1,2,3

Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate

Tools

Stock Management Systems

Job description

Head Chef - Join Our Team at BAM Finstown, Orkney! ️

Salary: £18.15 per hour

Location: BAM Finstown, Orkney
Department: ESS
Reporting to: Camp Boss

Are you an experienced Head Chef with a passion for delivering high-quality food and leading a dynamic kitchen team? If so, we want to hear from you!

At ESS, we pride ourselves on providing outstanding catering services. As Head Chef, you will be responsible for overseeing kitchen operations, ensuring the efficient and effective management of the catering unit, and delivering exceptional meals to our clients. You will also step up as Camp Boss when required, providing a fantastic opportunity to expand your leadership experience.
What You’ll Be Doing:
️ Leading the kitchen team, ensuring high standards of food quality and service
️ Managing stock, labour, and resources efficiently to maximise cost-effectiveness
️ Overseeing menu planning, ensuring variety, innovation, and compliance with dietary needs
️ Maintaining and promoting Health & Safety and Food Safety standards
️ Conducting regular team meetings and ensuring staff are well-trained and motivated
️ Ordering and managing stock to minimise waste and control costs
️ Ensuring food presentation, portion sizes, and allergen information are correctly managed
️ Handling administrative duties including staff scheduling and compliance paperwork
️ Mentoring and training apprentice chefs and junior team members
What We’re Looking For:
Proven experience as a Head Chef in a high-volume catering environment
Strong leadership and team management skills
NVQ Level 3 or City & Guilds 706/1,2,3 (or equivalent)
Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate
IT literacy and knowledge of stock management systems
Passion for food and a commitment to delivering high-quality meals
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure
A proactive, can-do attitude with a keen eye for detail
What We Offer:
Competitive salary and benefits
Work-life balance with structured shifts
A supportive and professional working environment
Career progression opportunities within ESS and Compass Group
Uniform and PPE provided
Ongoing training and development opportunities

If you’re a dedicated Head Chef looking for an exciting new challenge, apply today!