Looking for a hospitality role that fits your life — not the other way around?HEAD CHEFEdinburgh Academy Junior School, 10 Arboretum Road, Edinburgh, EH3 5PLChristmas & New Year Off – Every Year & Mainly Monday to Friday hoursHours: 40 hours per week, Monday–Friday, 7:00am–3:30pmAdditional hours: Occasional weekend work for school events as requiredPay: £35,000 per annumContract: 52 weeksRequirements: Enhanced PVG check required; full UK driving licence essential; own vehicle requiredBuild a Hospitality Career That Works Around YouAt Sodexo and Edinburgh Academy, we believe hospitality careers should offer more than long hours and late nights. This role provides a structured working pattern with evenings and most weekends free, alongside time off at Christmas and New Year every year.Join a forward-thinking, supportive environment where you can lead with creativity, deliver exceptional food, and maintain a genuine work–life balance.The RoleWe are seeking an experienced and driven Head Chef to lead catering operations at Edinburgh Academy Junior School. This is an excellent opportunity for a confident leader to take ownership of a busy kitchen, delivering high-quality food and service while inspiring and developing a dedicated team.Key ResponsibilitiesLead all aspects of kitchen operations, from menu planning to service deliveryDeliver high-quality catering and hospitality that consistently exceeds expectationsChampion a fresh food, from-scratch approach across all servicesMaintain the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and complianceManage budgets effectively, ensuring cost control and efficiencyTrain, mentor, and motivate your team to achieve excellenceOversee allergen management and ensure accurate communication at all timesPlan and deliver hospitality for school events and special functionsAbout YouProven experience in a professional catering environment (essential), ideally in contract or large-scale cateringStrong leadership experience within a busy kitchen environmentConfident in managing budgets and using catering systemsRelevant chef qualifications (NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent)Food Safety Level 2 or aboveExcellent organisation and time management skills, with the ability to perform under pressureA positive, proactive, and motivated approachFlexible, decisive, and able to inspire and lead a team effectivelyWhat We OfferCompetitive salary and comprehensive benefits packageStructured Monday–Friday working pattern with work–life balanceChristmas and New Year off every yearOpportunities for career progression and developmentA supportive, inclusive, and professional working environmentAdditional Benefits24/7 virtual GP and mental health supportEmployee Assistance Programme (legal, financial, and personal support)Sodexo Discounts Scheme for you, your family, and friendsPension schemeLearning and development opportunitiesCycle to Work schemeReady to Join Us?If you're a passionate Head Chef who thrives on leadership, creativity, and delivering outstanding service, we'd love to hear from you.Safeguarding & InclusionSodexo and The Edinburgh Academy are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. A satisfactory PVG check is required for this role. We are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader and welcome applications from all backgrounds.Apply today and take the next step in your career with Sodexo at Edinburgh Academy.Please note: This role may close early if a high volume of applications is received.