Head Chef - Newcastle Upon Tyne

Compass Group; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 33,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering service in Newcastle upon Tyne is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead their kitchen team. This role offers a competitive salary of £32,050 per annum with daytime hours from Monday to Friday, ensuring a great work-life balance. You will oversee food production, manage menu planning, and ensure compliance with food safety standards. Ideal candidates should have proven experience in contract catering and a passion for quality food and service.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Daytime hours, Monday to Friday

Opportunities for development and progression

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef in contract catering or high-volume hospitality.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills.
• Excellent understanding of allergens and dietary needs.

Responsibilities

• Lead, inspire and develop the kitchen team.
• Manage menu planning with a focus on fresh, seasonal dishes.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and company standards.

Skills

Leadership

Organizational skills

Food safety compliance

Menu planning

Understanding of allergens

Job description

Head Chef - Newcastle Upon Tyne

Salary: £32,050 per annum

Hours: 40 hours per week

Schedule: Monday-Friday

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead our kitchen team at our prestigious contract catering site, working on behalf of Eurest. This is a Monday‑Friday role with no late evenings or weekends, offering a great work‑life balance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, inspire, and develop the kitchen team
• Oversee all food production ensuring high standards of quality, consistency, and presentation
• Manage menu planning with a focus on fresh, seasonal, and innovative dishes
• Ensure full compliance with food safety, health & safety, and company standards
• Control stock, costs, and ordering
• Deliver exceptional catering and hospitality services for daily service and events

About You

• Proven experience as a Head Chef in contract catering or high‑volume hospitality
• Strong leadership and organisational skills
• A passion for quality food and great service
• Excellent understanding of allergens, dietary needs, and modern food trends
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced environment

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Daytime hours, Monday to Friday
• Opportunities for development and progression within Eurest/Compass Group