Head Chef | Elevate School Dining with Creative Menus

Compass Group UK; London Borough of Croydon; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free meals

On-site gym

Free parking

Healthcare benefits

Pension scheme

Career development

Discounts

Job summary

Compass Group UK&I is seeking a Head Chef at Lodestone House to lead an exciting kitchen operation, delivering imaginative menus with exceptional service across multiple outlets. The role emphasizes quality, team development, and a strong hands-on leadership approach in a busy, multi-facetted environment.

You will manage food production, drive sales through menu planning and promotions, and ensure strict food safety and cost controls while maintaining high standards and a positive work culture.

Qualifications

• Culinary excellence and presentation skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience leading a kitchen team.
• Understanding of budgeting, food cost and margins.

Responsibilities

• Deliver a range of catering services across outlets in a busy environment.
• Plan, organise and direct food preparation to maintain quality.
• Hands-on leadership with a focus on reducing wastage and costs.
• Drive sales through menu planning and supplier relationships.
• Ensure food safety, HSE and COSHH compliance.
• Monitor kitchen costs against budgets and implement controls.

Skills

Culinary excellence

Communication skills

Team leadership

Financial awareness

Job description

Compass Group UK&I is seeking a Head Chef at Lodestone House to lead an exciting kitchen operation, delivering imaginative menus with exceptional service across multiple outlets. The role emphasizes quality, team development, and a strong hands-on leadership approach in a busy, multi-facetted environment.

You will manage food production, drive sales through menu planning and promotions, and ensure strict food safety and cost controls while maintaining high standards and a positive work culture.