Relief Executive Chef

Compass Group UK; Woking; On-site; GBP 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food service company in the UK is seeking a Relief Executive Chef to provide high-end culinary support across various contracts. The role involves menu development, operational excellence, and team leadership, ensuring exceptional food experiences. Candidates should have experience in large-scale catering, strong organizational skills, and a passion for hospitality. This is a full-time, permanent position offering a competitive salary and opportunities for growth in a collaborative environment.

Benefits

25 days holiday + bank holidays

Competitive pension contribution

Enhanced maternity/paternity pay

Free staff meals

Supportive culture

Opportunities for growth

Qualifications

• Proven track record as an Executive Head Chef in a high‑volume environment.
• Experience in contract catering is highly desirable.
• Excellent organisational skills, especially during peak periods.

Responsibilities

• Create and adapt menus appealing to diverse dietary needs.
• Oversee kitchen operations ensuring compliance with food safety.
• Recruit and train a motivated kitchen team.

Skills

Menu Development

Operational Excellence

Leadership

Cost Control

Event Catering

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Relief Executive Chef

Location: South East England

Salary: Up to £65,000 per annum

Contract: Permanent, Full-Time, 5 out of 7 days per week

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.

What We Offer:

• 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

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.

The Ideal Candidate:

• 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.

About Us

Part of Compass Group UK&I, 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.

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!