Lead Chef

Aramark; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 1,000; Full time

Job summary

Aramark UK is seeking a Lead Chef to manage kitchen operations at B&Q's Head Office in Hampshire. The candidate will oversee culinary innovation while ensuring high food safety standards and driving a capable kitchen team. This full-time, permanent position offers challenges alongside excellent career development opportunities, with perks including free meals and gym membership.

Benefits

Free meals while on duty

Free on-site parking

Free gym membership

B&Q discount card

Life assurance

Pension contributions

Generous holiday entitlement

Ongoing training

Access to apprenticeship programmes

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in a similar role desirable, especially in educational or contract catering.
• Clean Enhanced DBS or willingness to obtain one.
• Proactive attitude with excellent leadership and organisation.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor kitchen staff, ensuring high standards in food production.
• Monitor and manage catering performance, responding to feedback.
• Create innovative menu solutions aligned with brand standards.

Skills

Leadership

Organisational Skills

Food Safety

Culinary Skills

IT Skills

Education

NVQ Level 1 & 2 in Culinary Skills

Job description

Your Aramark journey starts here

Job Title: Lead Chef
Location: B&Q SSO (Head Office), Hampshire, SO53 3LE
Contract Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Working Hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday - Friday, 6:00am - 3:30pm (occasional evenings)
Hourly Rate: £15.00

Aramark UK is currently recruiting a Lead Chef to lead our kitchen team at B&Q's Head Office in Hampshire. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced chef to oversee a dynamic kitchen operation, driving culinary innovation, cost efficiency, and excellent food quality.

In this role, you will be responsible for managing kitchen operations, mentoring your team, maintaining high standards of food safety, and delivering menus that meet client and customer expectations-all while working within agreed budgets to help improve sales.

What We Offer:

• Full-time position: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday (6am-3:30pm)
• Very occasional evening work
• £15.00 per hour
• Free meals while on duty
• Free on-site parking
• Free gym membership and B&Q discount card (after successful probation)
• Access to our Employee Benefits Platform - hundreds of discounts on retail, food, travel, and more
• Company benefits including life assurance, pension contributions, and generous holiday entitlement (with the option to buy more)
• Excellent career development opportunities - we actively promote from within
• Ongoing training and access to apprenticeship programmes to support your learning and growth

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and mentor kitchen staff, ensuring high standards in food production and presentation
• Promote best practices in food safety and quality, providing regular training and recognition to your team
• Maintain staff records, training logs, performance data, and ensure all shift checklists are completed
• Identify training needs and deliver instruction on new equipment, procedures, or company policies
• Create and implement cost-effective, innovative menu solutions aligned with brand standards
• Build strong client and customer relationships to support service excellence and business growth
• Monitor and manage catering performance, responding to feedback and taking corrective action when needed
• Ensure full compliance with company operational procedures including waste management, menu planning, and supplier use

What We're Looking For:

• NVQ Level 1 & 2 in Culinary Skills (or equivalent)
• Clean Enhanced DBS (or willingness to obtain one)
• Previous experience in a similar role (experience in educational or contract catering is desirable)
• A proactive, can-do attitude with excellent leadership and organisational skills
• Strong IT skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities

Job Reference: 590963
All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.

If you're ready to take your next step in a Head Chef role with excellent work-life balance and strong support for career development, apply today and show us the value you'll bring.

About Aramark

At Aramark UK, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is empowered to thrive. As a Disability Confident employer, we welcome applications from individuals of all abilities and provide support throughout the recruitment process.

We are committed to ensuring accessibility at every stage - from application to interview and employment. If you require any adjustments or have questions, please contact our recruitment team at: [e-mail]

Join us and be part of a team where everyone has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.