Lead Chef - Military Kitchen (High-Volume) Flexible Work

Sodexo; Abingdon; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-the-job training

Fully funded Apprenticeships

Career development opportunities

Wellbeing resources

Employee benefits

Job summary

Sodexo in Abingdon (Dalton Barracks) seeks a Head Chef to lead the culinary team, manage daily kitchen operations and ensure high-quality meals for armed forces personnel. You will schedule shifts, delegate to senior cooks, and uphold stringent hygiene and safety standards.

Experience in high-volume kitchens, allergen management and strong leadership are essential. The role offers on-site work with an emphasis on menu planning, efficiency, and staff development.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts or equivalent experience in a high-volume kitchen.
• Proficiency with IT and Microsoft Office packages.
• Extensive knowledge of food production methods, with focus on consistency and quality.
• In-depth understanding of allergens and safe dining practices.
• Strong leadership abilities with a focus on developing the team.
• Attention to detail and commitment to high standards.
• Ability to manage own performance and support colleagues.
• Thrives under pressure and accepts feedback to improve.
• Strong organisational skills and task prioritisation.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the culinary team and daily kitchen operations.
• Oversee sous chefs, commis, chef de parties and other staff and delegate tasks.
• Schedule shifts to balance work-life and maintain morale.
• Ensure EHO guidelines and sanitation standards are met.
• Plan menus aligned with military dining rotations and stock efficiency.
• Adjust menus to optimise stock use and minimise waste.
• Manage inventory and ensure presentation meets Sodexo/client expectations.
• Collaborate with FOH management to drive service excellence.
• Train and develop the team to uphold Sodexo standards.

Skills

Culinary leadership

High-volume kitchen

Allergens knowledge

Food production

Leadership

Quality control

Education

NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Sodexo in Abingdon (Dalton Barracks) seeks a Head Chef to lead the culinary team, manage daily kitchen operations and ensure high-quality meals for armed forces personnel. You will schedule shifts, delegate to senior cooks, and uphold stringent hygiene and safety standards.

Experience in high-volume kitchens, allergen management and strong leadership are essential. The role offers on-site work with an emphasis on menu planning, efficiency, and staff development.