Head Chef - High-Volume Kitchen Leader (Public Sector)

PPM Recruitment; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

PPM Recruitment seeks a Head Chef (Grade K2) to lead catering operations at a Ministry of Justice site in Newcastle upon Tyne. You will manage daily culinary output, lead a kitchen team, and ensure food safety, security, and high-quality meals across all services.

The role requires Level 3 NVQ in Professional Cookery or Catering and a Level 3 Food Safety certificate, with strong HACCP knowledge and public sector experience. Experience with budgets and supply chains is essential.

Qualifications

• Level 3 NVQ in Professional Cookery or Catering is required.
• Level 3 Food Safety and Hygiene Certificate is required.
• Proven Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef experience in a high-volume catering environment.
• Strong HACCP knowledge and kitchen compliance experience.
• Experience in secure government or custodial environments.
• Experience managing public sector catering budgets and supply chains.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day food preparation, cooking, and service operations.
• Lead kitchen staff, supervise, mentor, and schedule work.
• Maintain Health and Safety, HACCP, and security protocol compliance.
• Manage ordering, stock rotation, waste reduction, and inventory audits.
• Deliver nutritious, compliant menus that meet dietary requirements.

Skills

Head Chef experience

HACCP knowledge

Budget management

Team leadership

Education

Level 3 NVQ in Professional Cookery or Catering

Level 3 Food Safety Certificate

Tools

Stock management software

Kitchen equipment operation

Job description

PPM Recruitment seeks a Head Chef (Grade K2) to lead catering operations at a Ministry of Justice site in Newcastle upon Tyne. You will manage daily culinary output, lead a kitchen team, and ensure food safety, security, and high-quality meals across all services.

The role requires Level 3 NVQ in Professional Cookery or Catering and a Level 3 Food Safety certificate, with strong HACCP knowledge and public sector experience. Experience with budgets and supply chains is essential.