Head Chef - Lead High-Volume Military Kitchen 35h

Independents by Sodexo; Abingdon; Hybrid; GBP 19,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-the-job training

Fully funded apprenticeship

Career development opportunities

Wellbeing resources

Financial benefits

Career growth

Cycle to Work Scheme

Flexible work

Protective uniform

Job summary

Sodexo is seeking a Head Chef at Dalton Barracks, Abingdon, to lead a military dining operation. You will manage the culinary team, oversee production, plan menus, and ensure compliance with health and safety standards while delivering high-quality meals for armed forces personnel.

You will drive staff development, schedules, and stock management, collaborating with FOH to ensure exceptional dining experiences. A strong leadership background and NVQ/Culinary Arts qualification are essential.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts or equivalent experience in a high-volume kitchen.
• Proficiency in IT, excellent communication skills, and experience with Microsoft Office packages.
• Extensive knowledge of food production methods, with a focus on consistency and quality.
• In-depth understanding of allergens and the necessary precautions to ensure safe dining for all.
• Exceptional leadership abilities, with a focus on motivating and developing a team.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards.
• Ability to manage your own performance and support colleagues to do the same.
• Ability to thrive under pressure, accept feedback, and continuously improve.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage a busy workload.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the culinary team, ensuring smooth daily operations and providing guidance to the production team.
• Oversee and delegate responsibilities to sous chefs, commis chefs, chef de parties, and other kitchen staff to maintain efficiency.
• Schedule on and off-duty shifts for your team, fostering a balanced work-life environment to maintain morale and productivity.
• Ensure strict adherence to all Environmental Health and Safety (EHO) guidelines and monitor sanitation practices to guarantee compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Plan and execute menus, ensuring variety and quality while following the set military dining rotations.
• Make adjustments to menus as needed, optimizing the use of available stock and minimizing waste.
• Manage inventory and stock levels, ensuring meal presentation meets Sodexo and client expectations.
• Collaborate with Front of House (FOH) management to drive service excellence and elevate the overall dining experience.
• Train and develop your team, ensuring they are regularly refreshed on client and Sodexo standards.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Allergens awareness

IT literacy

Food production knowledge

Communication skills

High-volume kitchen experience

Education

NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Sodexo is seeking a Head Chef at Dalton Barracks, Abingdon, to lead a military dining operation. You will manage the culinary team, oversee production, plan menus, and ensure compliance with health and safety standards while delivering high-quality meals for armed forces personnel.

You will drive staff development, schedules, and stock management, collaborating with FOH to ensure exceptional dining experiences. A strong leadership background and NVQ/Culinary Arts qualification are essential.