Lead Chef – Menu Innovation & Service Excellence

Compass Group UK; Andover; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Contributory pension scheme

Career Pathways

Digital GP & wider healthcare benefits

Exclusive travel discounts

Discounts on groceries

Cinema discounts

Cash rewards program

Wellness and mindfulness classes

Discounts for friends and family

Job summary

Compass Group UK is seeking an ambitious Chef for Defence, on a full-time basis contracted to 48 hours per week. You will prepare high-quality food, oversee menu changes, and drive improvements in our food services while representing Defence and maintaining a strong brand image.

Ideal candidates will hold City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or NVQ equivalent, have experience supervising a team, and possess a Food Hygiene certificate, with a flexible approach to working patterns.

Qualifications

• Hold City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or NVQ equivalent.
• Have experience supervising a team in a kitchen.
• Hold a Food Hygiene certificate.
• Experience in a similar Chef role.

Responsibilities

• Preparing delicious, high‑quality food that delights clients and customers.
• Overseeing and implementing menu changes.
• Identifying opportunities to improve food services.
• Listening and acting on customer feedback to improve services.
• Supporting the creation of new menus and creative food concepts.
• Representing Defence and maintaining a positive brand image.
• Monitoring inventories to keep kitchens well-stocked.
• Overseeing kitchen cleaning and maintaining hygiene standards.
• Complying with Food Handling, Hygiene and Health & Safety regulations.

Skills

Food Hygiene certificate

Team supervision

Customer service mindset

Flexible working

Education

City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or NVQ equivalent

Job description

Compass Group UK is seeking an ambitious Chef for Defence, on a full-time basis contracted to 48 hours per week. You will prepare high-quality food, oversee menu changes, and drive improvements in our food services while representing Defence and maintaining a strong brand image.

Ideal candidates will hold City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or NVQ equivalent, have experience supervising a team, and possess a Food Hygiene certificate, with a flexible approach to working patterns.