* 40 hours per week
* Monday to Friday
* 0800 - 1700 with flexibility required
* £30,000 - £32,500 per annum
* Sodexo rewards and benefits
Job Introduction
Sodexobelieves that government agencies should foster an environment of respect,operating with efficiency and effectiveness to promote productivity. Weprioritize employee well-being and play a vital role in fostering strongercommunities.
Are you a passionate and experienced culinary leader ready to take your career to the next level?We are seeking a dynamic Executive Head Chef to lead our kitchen team at Merville Barracks, Colchester, CO2 7UT in delivering outstanding food and hospitality services.In this high-impact role, you'll be at the heart of operations—driving culinary excellence, leading a skilled team, and ensuring exceptional service for our clients and customers.If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, love developing innovative menus, and have a flair for team leadership and operational efficiency, we’d love to hear from you.
Whatyou’ll do:
Operational Leadership
* Oversee day-to-day kitchen operations, ensuring effective shift delivery and adherence to service specifications.
* Manage catering delivery across the site including food preparation, cooking, presentation, storage, and disposal.
* Ensure consistency in food quality, presentation, and service in accordance with contractual and company standards.
* Supervise consumption of ingredients in line with recipe cards and maintain cost control.
* Ensure accurate use of Sodexo’s recipe management systems.
Team Management & Development
* Lead, motivate, and develop the culinary team, fostering a high-performance culture.
* Support recruitment, onboarding, and training of kitchen staff.
* Conduct regular team briefs, performance reviews, and address training and development needs.
* Supervise the team fairly and drive staff engagement.
* Promote high standards of hygiene, cleanliness, and uniform/PPE compliance.
Compliance & Governance
* Ensure compliance with food hygiene, health & safety, COSHH, fire safety, and Sodexo Safety Management System (SMS).
* Ensure accurate recording of food temperatures, fridge/freezer readings, and other safety documentation.
* Pass internal and external audits and manage stock/security of all kitchen assets.
* Manage allergen information and ensure the team is trained accordingly.
Client & Customer Relationship Management
* Build and maintain strong client and customer relationships through professional service delivery.
* Handle complaints and feedback effectively, escalating issues when necessary.
* Represent the culinary team in client meetings and contribute to service reviews.
Financial & Resource Management
* Maintain labour and food costs within agreed budgets.
* Monitor and control stock levels, procurement, and wastage to ensure cost-effectiveness.
* Produce accurate documentation including weekly returns, menus, and costing sheets.
* Plan, cost, and implement consolidated menus across the business.
Service Excellence & Continuous Improvement
* Deliver service excellence aligned with Sodexo brand values and contractual expectations.
* Lead initiatives for food innovation and efficiency improvements.
* Ensure proper opening, handover, and closing procedures are followed.
* Strive for continuous improvement in all areas including productivity, cost control, and customer satisfaction.
What you bring:
* Previous experience in a senior catering operational role, preferably as a Head Chef.
* Professional cookery qualifications (e.g., City & Guilds 706/1 & 2, NVQ Level 2 & 3, HND or equivalent).
* Intermediate (Level 3) Food Safety certification.
* Strong leadership and people management skills, including HR-related functions.
* High attention to hygiene, safety, and food quality standards.
* Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills.
* Strong financial and numerical aptitude for cost control and budgeting.
* Ability to work under pressure and lead by example.
Desirable
* Experience working in a military or highly regulated environment.
* Level 3 CIEH Food Safety qualification or equivalent.
* Advanced leadership and strategic planning abilities.
* Proven track record in team development and food innovation.
* Analytical problem-solving and decision-making skills.
What we offer:
Workingwith Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of somethinggreater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values youfor you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everydayactions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way. In addition, we offer:
* Mental health & wellbeing support
* Employee Assistance Programme for personal, legal, and financial advice
* 24/7 virtual GP & lifestyle rewards
* Discounts for you & family
* Financial tools & retirement plan
* Cycle to Work & Paid volunteering day
Ready to be part ofsomething greater? Apply today!