Head Chef - West Sussex

Sodexo; Haywards Heath; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

A global leader in quality of life services is seeking a chef for their Haywards Heath location. This role offers a supportive team environment, exceptional work-life balance with only 1.5 weekend shifts every 3 weeks, and opportunities for professional growth. Ideal candidates have a passion for fresh food, strong leadership skills, and relevant qualifications. The company provides various benefits, including discounted gym membership and uniform supplied and laundered.

Benefits

Discounted gym membership

Employee Assistance Programme

Uniform supplied and laundered

Cycle to Work scheme

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a chef, ideally in healthcare or a similar environment.
• Computer literacy and good financial awareness.

Responsibilities

• Lead a small team to deliver meals for in-patients and staff.
• Maintain top hygiene and food safety standards.
• Manage kitchen operations and support team development.

Skills

Excellent craft and presentation skills

Strong leadership and communication skills

Positive, team‑focused attitude

Education

City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or equivalent

Level 3 Hygiene Certificate

Job description

Job Introduction

Team: 3 Chefs + 1 General Assistant Reports to: Business Manager. Looking for a chef role that offers real work-life balance, professional growth, and a supportive team? This is a phenomenal opportunity for someone ready to take the next step in their culinary career-or for a passionate chef who loves to cook but wants a lifestyle not often available in the industry. At Nuffield Health: Haywards Heath Hospital, you'll join a small, friendly team where your skills are valued and your wellbeing matters. With only 1.5 weekend shifts every 3 weeks, discounted gym membership, and whites supplied and laundered, this role is designed to support both your career and your life outside of work.

What You'll Do

• Lead a small, close-knit team to deliver breakfast, lunch, and dinner for around 15 in-patients daily, plus staff meals and cold sandwich provisions for day patients—all to the highest standards.
• Liaise directly with the ward supervisor to ensure seamless service and patient satisfaction.
• Maintain top hygiene and food safety standards (aiming for 5-star EHO and Safeguard Green audits).
• Manage kitchen operations, including ordering, stock control, compliance, and staff rotas.
• Prepare fresh, scratch‑cooked meals using central menus.
• Support and develop your team, identifying training needs and helping others grow.
• Deputise for the Client Services Manager as needed.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a chef, ideally in healthcare or a similar environment.
• Excellent craft and presentation skills, with a passion for fresh, quality food.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or equivalent, plus Level 3 Hygiene Certificate.
• Computer literacy and good financial awareness.
• A positive, team‑focused attitude and a desire to deliver outstanding service.

Benefits

• Location: Just a 2-minute walk from the train station, free parking available and a company Cycle to Work scheme.
• Uniform: Whites supplied and laundered for you.
• Work‑Life Balance: Only 1.5 weekend shifts every 3 weeks – unbeatable for chefs! Employee Assistance Programme (including financial/legal advice and personal support) and Discounts on high street brands for you and your family.
• Wellbeing: Discounted membership at Nuffield Crawley gym, Free health and wellbeing app with 24/7 virtual GP access and Entitlement to mental health and wellbeing resources.
• Development: Opportunities to undertake further qualifications and training.
• Team: Work with a small, friendly, and supportive team where your contribution is truly valued.

About Sodexo At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better every day for everyone to build a better life for all. As the global leader in services that improve the Quality of Life, we operate in 55 countries, serving over 100 million consumers each day through our unique combination of Onsite Food and FM Services, Benefits and Rewards Services and Personal and Home Services.