Head Chef - Innovative School Dining Leader

Compass Group UK & Ireland; Eastbourne; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Contributory pension

Career pathways

Digital GP access

Travel discounts

Grocery discounts

Cinema tickets

Cash rewards

Wellness classes

Job summary

Compass Group UK & Ireland is seeking a Head Chef to lead culinary teams in delivering imaginative menus and high-quality food service across independent school outlets. You will drive on-site production, ensure strict food safety standards, and manage budgets while promoting a positive, team-focused environment.

The role requires hands-on kitchen leadership, strong communications, and a passion for fresh, nutritious food in a busy, multi-site setting.

Qualifications

• Excellent and Innovative culinary and presentation skills
• Excellent Communication and Interpersonal skills
• Energetic with a passion to do a great job
• Able to manage staff in a calm, inspirational manner
• A forward-thinker who can prevent wastage
• Demonstrates a passion for food
• Team Player
• Excellent organisation skills
• Numerate and computer literate with an understanding of financial drivers
• A clear understanding of profit margins, purchasing policy, budgeting and food costing, including control

Responsibilities

• Delivery of a range of food and catering services across a number of outlets in a complex, busy and multi-facetted environment
• The HeadChef will plan, organise and direct the preparation and cooking of food ensuring that the company’s reputation for quality is enhanced with customers and clients at all times
• Taking responsibility for the food production with a hands-on approach
• Driving sales through centrally driven menu planning and promotions and preferred suppliers
• Responsible for all aspects of food safety, HSE and COSHH
• The HeadChef will also be required to implement and maintain food monitoring procedures to facilitate budgetary control and to monitor all costs involved in the kitchen against agreed budgets.

Job description

Compass Group UK & Ireland is seeking a Head Chef to lead culinary teams in delivering imaginative menus and high-quality food service across independent school outlets. You will drive on-site production, ensure strict food safety standards, and manage budgets while promoting a positive, team-focused environment.

The role requires hands-on kitchen leadership, strong communications, and a passion for fresh, nutritious food in a busy, multi-site setting.