Head Chef - Education Site (Winchester)
Salary: £31,921 - £36,497 (FTE)
Hours: 37 per week
Weeks per year: 39
Contract: Permanent
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead a dynamic catering operation at a thriving educational site in Winchester. This is a key leadership position, reporting to the Catering Manager, with full responsibility for the kitchen and day-to-day catering services.
You will oversee the preparation of high-quality meals for approximately 5,000 day students, provide dedicated service for 73 boarding students, and support a growing in-house hospitality offering.
What We're Looking For
Our ideal candidate will be:
* A Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef with proven experience in high-volume catering (ideally 2,000+ meals daily).
* A strong, inspirational leader with a track record of managing and developing large kitchen teams (15-20 staff).
* Skilled in delivering fresh, high-quality food with creativity and flair.
* Knowledgeable in HACCP, food safety, and health & safety regulations.
* Financially astute, with experience in menu costing, budgeting, and waste reduction .
* Highly organised, calm under pressure, and an excellent communicator.
* Empathetic and genuinely interested in catering for young people.
Why Join Us?
We offer a stimulating environment where your culinary vision can thrive, alongside a competitive salary and benefits package. Our workplace culture is inclusive, supportive, and values the wellbeing of staff.
Benefits include:
* Special leave for significant occasions
* Staff wellbeing initiatives and support groups
* Inclusive activities such as staff choir and sports
* No expectation to answer emails out of hours
* Complimentary lunch at all lunchtime meetings
* Seasonal treats and end-of-term celebrations
* Bike and computer loan schemes
Ready to lead a vibrant catering team and make a real impact?
Apply today and bring your passion for food to an environment that values creativity, quality, and community.
Blue Arrow is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to helping find great work opportunities for great people.