Head Chef

Aramark Ltd; Woking; On-site; GBP 31,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent catering company in Woking is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead their kitchen team at JRDF, ATC Pirbright. The role involves managing kitchen operations, ensuring food safety, and delivering innovative menus. Ideal candidates will have NVQ Level 1 & 2 in Culinary Skills and a strong leadership background in a similar environment. This position offers a full-time salary of £30,192 per year, with benefits including career development opportunities and a positive work environment.

Benefits

Free on-site parking

Employee Benefits App access

Life assurance

Pension contributions

Generous holiday allowance

Qualifications

• Experience in a similar environment (education or defence preferred).
• UK residency for the past 3 years due to security vetting requirements.
• Ability to pass Enhanced DBS and full security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the kitchen team to deliver innovative menus.
• Manage kitchen operations and food production standards.
• Ensure compliance with hygiene and operational excellence.
• Build strong client relationships and respond to feedback.

Skills

Leadership

Culinary creativity

Food safety compliance

Budget management

Education

NVQ Level 1 & 2 in Culinary Skills

Job description

We’re on the lookout for a passionate and experienced Head Chef to lead our culinary team at JRDF, ATC Pirbright. If you’re ready to take charge of kitchen operations, drive innovation, and deliver exceptional food while maintaining cost efficiency, this could be your next big move.

At Aramark UK, we believe in making work-life balance achievable in hospitality. Join a global leader in contract catering and grow your culinary career with the best in the business.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Lead and inspire the kitchen team to deliver high-quality, innovative menus.
• Manage kitchen operations, budgets, and food production standards.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and operational excellence.
• Build strong client relationships and respond to customer feedback.
• Train staff on new procedures, equipment, and company policies.
• Drive continuous improvement and support team development.

Benefits:

• Free on-site parking, uniform, and safety shoes.
• Access to our Employee Benefits App: Online GP, EAP, discounts & more.
• Life assurance, pension contributions, generous holiday allowance (with buy-more option).
• Career development opportunities – we love to promote from within!
• Apprenticeship schemes and ongoing training support.

Qualifications:

• NVQ Level 1 & 2 in Culinary Skills.
• Experience in a similar environment (education or defence preferred).
• A proactive, can‑do attitude and strong leadership skills.
• UK residency for the past 3 years (due to security vetting requirements).
• Ability to pass Enhanced DBS and full security clearance.

About Aramark UK

We’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer, committed to diversity, inclusion, and supporting all employees to thrive. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact our team at [e-mail]. We’re also recognised as a Forces Friendly Employer, holding the prestigious ERS Gold Award in support of the Armed Forces community.

Compensation & Schedule

Salary: £30,192 per year (£15.43/hour)

Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours/week (5 days over 7, including alternate weekends)

Shifts: Early (06:00-14:00) & Late (12:00-20:00) - enjoy your evenings free!

Location: GU24 0QQ

Sector: Defence Catering

Ready to lead with flavour? Apply now and cook up a career that matters.