Lead Chef

Sodexo; Vines Cross; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working

Match day/events shift

Job summary

Sodexo Live! is hiring a Lead Chef to guide the kitchen team for Brighton & Hove FC on matchdays and non-match days. You will lead service, maintain high standards, and ensure strict hygiene and food safety across busy events.

The role requires strong leadership, excellent organisation, and the ability to work efficiently during conferences and hospitality events. Evening and weekend availability is essential.

Qualifications

• Experience in chef or senior kitchen role.
• Experience in fast-paced hospitality, stadium, events or catering environments.
• Level 3 Food Hygiene qualification required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support the kitchen team during service and events.
• Prepare, cook and present food to venue standards.
• Ensure all food safety, allergen and hygiene procedures are followed.
• Monitor food quality, portion control and presentation.
• Manage kitchen setup, service and close-down procedures.
• Collaborate with management and front-of-house to deliver guest experiences.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organisation

Team management

Attention to detail

Calm under pressure

Education

Level 3 Food Hygiene qualification

Job description

And we're hiring Lead Chefs to join the team at Brighton & Hove FC. Our experiences are unique, and so are our people. Bring personality, your background and your desire for delighting others. In return we'll give you all you need to thrive. Because at Sodexo Live! We're so much more. Be part of something greater. This opportunity will be to join the team for the 2026/27 Football Season. With the opportunity to work at Matchdays and Non matchdays, this is a great opportunity for driven individuals to succeed in a fast and innovative catering facility. The successful candidate will lead by example, ensuring high standards of food quality, hygiene, presentation, and team performance are maintained at all times. This role requires strong leadership skills, excellent organisation, and the ability to work efficiently during busy matchdays, conferences and hospitality events.

• Lead and support the kitchen team during service periods and event operations
• Prepare, cook, and present food to company and venue standards
• Ensure all food safety, allergen, and hygiene procedures are followed at all times
• Monitor food quality, consistency, and portion control
• Manage kitchen setup, service, and close-down procedures
• Work closely with management and front-of-house teams to deliver excellent guest experiences
• Maintain a clean, organised, and safe working environment
• Lead by example with professionalism, teamwork, and communication
  Previous experience within a chef or senior kitchen role
• Experience working within fast-paced hospitality, stadium, events, or catering environments
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent communication and organisational abilities
• Ability to remain calm under pressure during busy service periods
• Good knowledge of food safety, allergens, and hygiene regulations
• Level 3 Food Hygiene qualification
• Flexible and reliable with availability to work evenings, weekends, and event days
• Ability to motivate and develop team members
• Strong attention to detail and high standards of presentation
  Over 18's: £18 - £20
• Flexible working
• Match Days and Non-Match Days (C&E Events) which includes evening & weekend shifts