Site Head Chef

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services; Bassingbourn; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Contributory pension scheme

Career Pathways

MyLearning programmes

Digital GP access

Travel discounts

Cinema discounts

Cash rewards program

Free wellness classes

Discounts for family and friends

Job summary

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services in the UK is seeking a Head Chef to oversee daily kitchen operations, ensure meals follow the set menu and dietary needs, and lead a team to deliver safe, high‑quality service. You will manage stock, budgets and maintain rigorous food safety standards in a healthcare setting.

The role rewards leadership, reliability, and a passion for consistent, patient-centered food service.

Qualifications

• City & Guilds 706/1 & 706/2 or NVQ equivalent.
• Experience as Head Chef or senior chef in a structured environment.
• Able to work to set menus and standardised procedures.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Organised, calm and dependable under pressure.
• Safety‑first mindset with excellent attention to detail.
• Deliver food that meets patients' and service users' needs.

Responsibilities

• Deliver meals in line with a set menu, ensuring consistency and quality at every service.
• Lead and support the kitchen team, creating a positive and well-organised working environment.
• Ensure all food is prepared, cooked and presented to required standards.
• Manage stock ordering, stock control and food waste.
• Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene and health & safety at all times.
• Ensure cleaning schedules are followed and the kitchen remains compliant and audit-ready.
• Manage kitchen budgets and support cost control.
• Act as a professional representative of the organisation on site.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organisational skills

Safety conscious

Education

City & Guilds 706/1 & 706/2 or NVQ equivalent

Job description

As Head Chef, you will be responsible for the day‑to‑day running of the kitchen, ensuring all meals are prepared and served accurately in line with the agreed menu and dietary requirements.

You’ll focus on standards, compliance, team leadership and consistency, ensuring every service is delivered safely, efficiently and on time.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver meals in line with a set menu, ensuring consistency and quality at every service
• Lead and support the kitchen team, creating a positive and well-organised working environment
• Ensure all food is prepared, cooked and presented to required standards
• Manage stock ordering, stock control and food waste
• Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene and health & safety at all times
• Ensure cleaning schedules are followed and the kitchen remains compliant and audit‑ready
• Manage kitchen budgets and support cost control
• Act as a professional representative of the organisation on site

What We’re Looking For

• City & Guilds 706/1 & 706/2 or NVQ equivalent
• Experience working as a Head Chef or strong Senior Chef in a structured environment
• Comfortable working to set menus and standardised procedures
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Organised, calm and dependable under pressure
• Safety‑first mindset with excellent attention to detail
• Passionate about delivering food that meets the needs of patients and service users

Why Apply?

• £17.30 per hour, paid for 40 hours per week
• A stable, structured role with predictable hours
• Supportive healthcare environment
• Opportunity to develop your leadership skills within an established organisation
• A role where quality, consistency and care matter more than volume

Benefits

• Contributory pension scheme
• Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
• Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
• Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more
• Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and many more
• Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
• Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
• Un‑wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
• You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families

About Us

Part of Compass Group UK&I, ESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland. We support 250+ UK military establishments, high profile police, secure environments and government sites, along with a range of onshore and offshore facilities including platforms, drilling rigs, floatels and offices for the energy sector. We know that a friendly face makes all the difference, so we look for people who are passionate about delivering excellent customer service, at all levels, to join our teams.

Job Reference: com/0809/96047001/52685958/SU #Defence

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!