Head Chef - Contract Catering Leader & Menu Innovator

OCS; Winchester; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Award-Winning Employer

Digital Learning

Retail Perks

Professional Growth

Flexible Pay

Job summary

OCS UK & Ireland is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead contract catering operations, designing and updating menus that reflect seasonal, local produce and client requirements while maintaining high culinary standards.

You will supervise kitchen staff, provide training, control food costs, manage inventory, and ensure compliance with safety and hygiene regulations; you must build strong client relationships and deliver consistently excellent service in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Proven and extensive experience in food production and service within contract catering.
• Experience in leading and managing teams in a contract catering environment.
• Strong leadership, mentoring, and staff motivation skills.
• Ability to build client and staff relationships and meet client expectations.

Responsibilities

• Creating and updating menus with seasonal, local produce and client requirements.
• Oversee kitchen staff, provide guidance, training, and resolve conflicts.
• Manage inventory and adjust dishes when ingredients are unavailable.
• Ensure high culinary standards, cost control, and adherence to budgets.
• Maintain safe, clean, and hygienic kitchen conditions in line with policies.

Education

Level 3 in Catering and Hospitality or equivalent

Tools

Excel

Microsoft Office

Job description

OCS UK & Ireland is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead contract catering operations, designing and updating menus that reflect seasonal, local produce and client requirements while maintaining high culinary standards.

You will supervise kitchen staff, provide training, control food costs, manage inventory, and ensure compliance with safety and hygiene regulations; you must build strong client relationships and deliver consistently excellent service in a fast-paced environment.