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Head Chef - Reading

Compass Group

Reading

On-site

GBP 42,000

Full time

30+ days ago

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Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a talented Head Chef to lead a dedicated catering team in Reading. This role offers the chance to create exceptional culinary experiences while promoting sustainability and developing a positive kitchen environment. If you are passionate about innovative cuisine and possess strong leadership skills, this position provides an excellent opportunity for work-life balance and career growth. Join a company that values diversity and empowers its team members to thrive, while enjoying a comprehensive benefits package that rewards your hard work.

Benefits

Meal provided while on duty
Gym access on site
Financial wellbeing programme
Free annual healthcare check
Discounted health cash plan
Pension scheme
Employee Assistance Programme
Holiday purchase scheme
Recognition awards
Ongoing training & development

Qualifications

  • Experience in contract catering and hospitality.
  • Strong culinary and presentation skills are essential.

Responsibilities

  • Plan and direct food preparation to enhance quality and reputation.
  • Drive sustainability initiatives and maintain cleanliness standards.

Skills

Culinary Skills
Team Management
Communication Skills
Budgeting and Cost Control
Food Safety Management

Education

Culinary Arts Degree
Food Safety Certification

Tools

HACCP
Food Management Systems

Job description

Head Chef - Reading

Up to £42,000 per annum (depending on experience)

Monday to Friday role

We are looking for a talented, enthusiastic Head Chef for our dedicated catering team in Reading, producing outstanding food using the finest and freshest ingredients in this prestigious contract.

If you are an innovative and creative Chef, passionate about using top quality fresh ingredients, and looking for a role which can offer both work-life balance and career development - we want to hear from you!

About the role
  • Plan, organise, innovate and direct the preparation and cooking of food to ensure the company's reputation for quality is enhanced with customers and clients at all times.
  • Drive ours and our clients sustainability mission to be net zero by 2030.
  • Create a positive kitchen environment where your team feel welcomed, supported and developed.
  • Focus on service execution and delivery excellence at all times.
  • Drive sales through menu planning and promotions.
  • Responsible for implementing and maintaining high levels of cleanliness, food safety, HS and COSHH within the kitchen.
  • Maintain food monitoring procedures to facilitate budgetary control and monitor all costs involved in the kitchen against agreed budgets.
  • Maintain the centre of excellence in food and customer service.
About You
  • Previous experience in a similar role in contract catering with hospitality and events.
  • Ability to successfully motivate and manage a team to deliver consistent standards.
  • Excellent and innovative culinary and presentation skills.
  • Passionate about all things hospitality with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Leads and inspires a team with a progressive mindset in developing people.
  • A clear understanding of profit margins, purchasing policy, budgeting and food costing.
  • Stock and waste control experience.
  • Understanding of food management systems: HACCP, Food Safety, Health and Safety, Natasha's Law, Allergens and Manual Handling.
About us

We ensure you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:

  • Meal provided while on duty.
  • Gym access on site.
  • Financial wellbeing programme and preferred rates on salary finance products.
  • Aviva Digi care - Free annual healthcare check.
  • Medicash - Discounted health cash plan providing cash back on a range of medical treatments including Dental, Optical and Consultant appointments for you and your family.
  • Pension scheme and Life Assurance.
  • Employee Assistance Programme.
  • Holiday purchase scheme.
  • Sharebuy Scheme.
  • Recognition awards including Be a Star peer recognition and Long Service Awards.
  • Employee networks created and led by employees for employees.
  • Exclusive Benefits & Wellbeing site (Perks at Work).
  • Entertainment, Health & Wellbeing and Travel discounts.
  • Shopping discounts - Save up to 15% at high street and online stores by purchasing Shopping Cards.
  • On-going training & development and career pathways.

Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive because diversity is our strength!

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