Lead Sous Chef - High-Volume Defence Catering

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services; England; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Contributory pension

Career Pathways

MyLearning

Digital GP

Healthcare benefits

Travel discounts

Grocery discounts

Cinema tickets

Cash rewards

Wellbeing classes

Job summary

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to lead its catering operation at Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore. The role focuses on high-quality, nutritious meals for Service Personnel and strong team leadership in a fast paced, structured environment.

You’ll manage daily feeding and function activities, drive food safety standards and cost control while developing a dedicated team. The position is on-site with a 37.5-hour week and a salary of £30,360 per annum.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a Sous Chef or Senior Chef role.
• Hands-on leader who collaborates with the team.
• Strong organisational and communication skills.
• Ability to manage a small team effectively and responsibly.
• Calm under pressure in a high-volume catering environment.
• Reliable and flexible to changing weekly schedules.
• Safety-first mindset with passion for food.

Responsibilities

• Preparing and delivering high-quality, nutritious meals for Service Personnel.
• Leading from the front in a hands-on Sous Chef role.
• Managing daily feeding and function activities.
• Supporting, motivating, and developing a team.
• Ensuring excellent food presentation, consistency, and service standards.
• Managing food ordering, stock control, and minimising waste.
• Maintaining the highest standards of food hygiene, cleanliness, and safety.
• Managing budgets and ensuring financial targets are met.
• Ensuring compliance with Food Safety and Health & Safety regulations.

Skills

Sous Chef experience

Hands-on leadership

Organisational skills

Team management

Calm under pressure

Reliability & flexibility

Food safety mindset

Job description

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to lead its catering operation at Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore. The role focuses on high-quality, nutritious meals for Service Personnel and strong team leadership in a fast paced, structured environment.

You’ll manage daily feeding and function activities, drive food safety standards and cost control while developing a dedicated team. The position is on-site with a 37.5-hour week and a salary of £30,360 per annum.