Lead Sous Chef — High-Volume Defence Catering

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services; Wattisham; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free meals

Pension

Career development

Healthcare benefits

Travel discounts

Food shopping discounts

Cinema discounts

Cash rewards

Wellness classes

Discounts for friends/family

Job summary

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services at Wattisham Airfield is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to lead our catering operation. This hands-on role focuses on delivering high-quality meals for Service Personnel in a fast-paced, structured environment.

You will manage daily feeding and function activities, develop a small team, monitor hygiene and safety, control stock and budgets, and ensure presentation and service standards are exceptional.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a Sous Chef or Senior Chef role
• A hands-on leader who enjoys working alongside their team
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• The ability to manage a small team effectively and responsibly
• Calm under pressure and confident in a high-volume catering environment
• Reliable, flexible, and able to adapt to changing weekly schedules
• A safety-first mindset with a genuine 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 full compliance with Food Safety and Health & Safety regulations

Job description

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services at Wattisham Airfield is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to lead our catering operation. This hands-on role focuses on delivering high-quality meals for Service Personnel in a fast-paced, structured environment.

You will manage daily feeding and function activities, develop a small team, monitor hygiene and safety, control stock and budgets, and ensure presentation and service standards are exceptional.