Chef - Lead with Passion, Cook with Purpose! Location: Sevenoaks School, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1HU Salary: £16.50 per hour Hours: 40 hours per week Working Pattern: 5 days out of 7 Are you ready to take the lead in a kitchen where food fuels not just bodies but bright futures? As a Junior Sous Chef for Sodexo, you'll be at the heart of the school, overseeing food and beverage operations, managing budgets, and ensuring every meal is top-tier. Your leadership will inspire your team daily, creating a dynamic and productive work environment. Join Sodexo and be part of something greater. You belong in a team where you can act with purpose and thrive in your own way. Please take the time to read the attached job description What You’ll Do: Oversee the replenishment of food and ensure work areas are cleaned and maintained to a high standard Assist the Executive Chef, Head Chef and Senior Sous Chef with the smooth running of the kitchen in regards to heading up all hospitality functions, and delivery of the core catering food Develop, mentor, and train kitchen staff to foster an inspiring team culture Manage and optimise all aspects of the catering operation, including labour, food, and stock costs Maintain consistency in food quality and service standards for staff, visitors, and students Lead menu creation and development to keep offerings fresh and exciting Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with food safety and hygiene regulations To be responsible for organising the pass, setting up hotplates and arranging shams To ensure that service and all functions are set up correctly to ensure smooth service To actively delegate and encourage the team to be proactive in ensuring that all preparation is done in good time for every function To prepare all food with due care and attention, particularly in regards to customers’ special dietary requirements: for example, nut, dairy or wheat allergies To hold pre-service briefs with Hospitality/FOH Manager and waiting staff What You Bring: Essential: Experience cooking on a large scale (1000–1500 students) Experience following recipes in a professional kitchen Prior staff supervision or line management experience Strong knowledge of fresh produce and ingredient preparation Demonstrate experience of working in a similar role within the service industry at a comparable level in a company Able to demonstrate attention to detail and adherence to standards Analyse problems analytically, develop opportunities and implement innovative solutions Show ability to set standards and operate to the service standard criteria HACCP awareness To demonstrate a flexible attitude to working hours and promote a positive mental outlook to all aspects of work Be respectful of others at all times The desire and tenacity to adhere to procedures Basic Food Hygiene and Health and Safety Certificates Desirable: Proven experience of managing client relationships Proven track record of leading, managing and developing a team Personal innovation and creativity To show a hunger and passion for good food and the drive to make it achievable Good admin and telephone skills Flexible approach to the role and be self-motivated Good interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with customers, clients and staff NVQ level 3 in food preparation What We Offer: A dynamic and supportive work environment Competitive salary and benefits Full training and protective uniform provided No unsociable hours and public holidays off—including Christmas! Unlimited access to mental health and wellbeing support Employee Assistance Programme for legal, financial, and personal support Discounts, cashback schemes, and financial benefits Career progression, learning opportunities, and apprenticeships Cycle to Work Scheme and volunteering opportunities At Sodexo, we believe everyone deserves a place to belong. This isn’t just a job—it’s a chance to be part of something bigger. If you’re ready to lead with passion and cook with purpose, we want to hear from you! Apply today and help us create a brighter future! Note: Sodexo and our clients are committed to safeguarding children. All roles require pre-employment screening, including DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) and past employer checks. Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we receive a high number of applications.