Relief Executive Chef

Compass Group PLC; Old Woking; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering company in the UK seeks a Relief Executive Chef to provide high-end culinary support across various contracts. The role involves menu development, overseeing kitchen operations, and leading a motivated team. Candidates should have a proven track record in high-volume environments, strong leadership abilities, and a passion for food and sustainability. This position offers 25 days holiday, competitive pension contributions, and opportunities for growth in a supportive culture.

Benefits

25 days holiday + bank holidays

Competitive pension contribution

Enhanced maternity/paternity pay

Free staff meals

Free staff parking

Opportunities for growth and development

Qualifications

• Proven track record as an Executive Head Chef in a high-volume, high-quality environment.
• Experience in large-scale and special event catering.
• Excellent organizational skills, especially during peak periods.

Responsibilities

• Create and adapt menus that appeal to a broad visitor base.
• Oversee all kitchen operations and ensure food safety compliance.
• Recruit, train, and inspire kitchen teams.

Skills

Leadership

Menu Development

Organizational Skills

Financial Management

Customer Focus

Resilience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Menu Development & Innovation – Create and adapt menus that appeal to a broad visitor base, including family‑friendly options, dietary requirements, and seasonal specials.
• Operational Excellence – Oversee all kitchen operations, ensuring compliance with food safety legislation, company policies, and contractual obligations.
• Leadership & Team Development – Recruit, train, and inspire a motivated kitchen team, fostering a positive and professional working culture.
• Cost Control & Profitability – Manage budgets, control wastage, and achieve GP targets without compromising quality.
• Collaboration – Work closely with front‑of‑house teams, site management, and the client to deliver a consistent and memorable food experience.
• Event Catering Excellence – Plan, coordinate, and deliver high‑quality catering for large‑scale events, ensuring seamless execution and exceptional guest experiences.

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven track record as an Executive Head Chef in a high‑volume, high‑quality environment.
• Experience within contract catering is highly desirable.
• Proven experience in large‑scale and special event catering, with the ability to deliver high‑quality food and service under pressure.
• Inspirational leader with the ability to build high‑performing, motivated teams.
• Excellent organisational skills, especially during peak periods.
• Strategic thinker with vision for menu innovation and operational efficiency.
• Sound knowledge of food trends, allergens, and dietary requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to achieve financial targets while maintaining high quality.
• Good IT and Microsoft Office skills.
• Passionate about food and hospitality with a strong customer focus.
• Adaptable and resilient in a fast‑paced, ever‑changing environment.
• Creative, commercially aware, and results driven.
• Enthusiastic about mentoring and developing future culinary leaders.
• Committed to sustainability and responsible sourcing.

Position Summary

As the Relief Executive Chef for Restaurant Associates UK, you will be joining our central relief team to provide high‑end culinary support across all contracts that require additional support from an Executive Head Chef. Success in this role means that guests consistently enjoy the food sold and served across all outlets on all of our sites, with the kitchens running efficiently, safely, and profitably. The successful candidate will continue to build on the great relationships we already have with our clients to grow the food offering at our diverse portfolio of contracts.

Benefits

• 25 days holiday + bank holidays
• Competitive pension contribution offer
• Enhanced maternity/paternity pay
• Free staff meals whilst working on site
• Free staff parking
• A supportive, values‑driven culture within cohesive teams
• Opportunities for growth and development within a national business
• A chance to make a meaningful impact in a continuously growing sector

About Compass Group UK&I

Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive – because diversity is our strength!

Restaurant Associates provides brilliant hospitality through our food, drink and services. We work with our partners and collaborate with our clients to achieve great things together. Every day, our teams of passionate hospitality professionals strive for excellence in delivering employee dining and hospitality to some of the UK's leading workplace as well as inspiring exceptional experiences in iconic cultural and heritage destinations.