Job Description
* Plan and prepare high-quality, seasonal menus to provide hot and cold catering for diverse dietary needs (including vegetarian and gluten-free).
* Lead by example in the kitchen, performing all aspects of preparation, cooking and serving as well as maintaining the highest culinary and hygiene standards. Including full kitchen cover when required
* Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring timely food service and cleanliness.
* Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations.
* Manage catering budgets, controlling food costs, staffing, and overheads.
* Monitor stock levels, ordering, and minimize wastage.
* Manage procurement and supplier relationships for fresh, cost-effective ingredients.
* Recruit, train, and develop kitchen and catering staff, ensuring high performance.
* Implement operational procedures to optimize efficiency and quality.
* Build strong relationships with employees, ensuring excellent customer service.
Qualifications
* NVQ Level 3+ in Professional Cookery or equivalent
* Proven experience as a Head Chef or Catering Manager, 3-5 years is essential, preferably in a high-volume environment
* Strong knowledge of HACCP, food hygiene, allergen legislation with knowledge of sustainability and nutrition best practices desired
* Experience leading and managing kitchen teams
* Excellent organisational and time management skills
* Strong communication and interpersonal abilities
* Up-to-date understanding of catering industry trends and best practices
* Passion for innovation in the kitchen and customer experience
* This role requires flexibility around business needs
Additional Information
* 22 days annual leave (increasing to 25 after 1 year & with length of service)
* Free breakfast and lunch in our onsite canteen
* Free onsite gym – including classes
* Free onsite parking
* Life insurance
* Private healthcare and pension
* Employee assistance programme (EAP)
* 2x “Giving Back” charitable days per year
* Cycle to work scheme
DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
Here at ACS we're passionate about bringing people together to create a truly inclusive environment that promotes and values diversity, across our global network of offices.