Head Chef | Innovative School Catering Leader

Compass Group UK; Sutton; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension scheme

Career development

Digital GP

Travel discounts

Cinema discounts

Food discounts

Job summary

Compass Group UK is seeking a Head Chef to lead a busy, multi-outlet catering operation. You will plan and direct daily preparation, ensuring high-quality, nutritious menus and strong financial discipline.

The role requires energetic leadership, passion for food, and the ability to manage a team in a fast-paced environment. We offer competitive pay and opportunities for development within a market-leading employer.

Qualifications

• Excellent culinary and presentation skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Energetic and passionate about delivering quality.
• Experience leading and managing staff.
• Waste prevention mindset.
• Passion for food.
• Team player with good organisation.
• Numerate with budgeting and cost understanding.
• Understanding of profit margins and purchasing policy.

Responsibilities

• Deliver a range of food and catering services across multiple outlets.
• Plan, organise and direct preparation and cooking to maintain quality.
• Take responsibility for food production with a hands-on approach.
• Drive sales through menu planning and promotions; work with suppliers.
• Ensure all food safety, HSE and COSHH are followed.
• Monitor costs and budgets in kitchen.

Skills

Culinary skills

Communication skills

Team leadership

Waste prevention

Passion for food

Team player

Organisation

Numeracy and budgeting

Food costing

Tools

Digital literacy

Job description

Compass Group UK is seeking a Head Chef to lead a busy, multi-outlet catering operation. You will plan and direct daily preparation, ensuring high-quality, nutritious menus and strong financial discipline.

The role requires energetic leadership, passion for food, and the ability to manage a team in a fast-paced environment. We offer competitive pay and opportunities for development within a market-leading employer.