An exceptional opportunity for a talented Executive Chef to lead a large culinary team at a prestigious private school in stunning surroundings.
Executive Chef
Prestigious Private School | Mostly Monday–Friday | Compass Group UK
The Opportunity
We're looking for an inspiring and experienced Executive Chef to join a thriving, high-profile independent school contract. Set within beautiful grounds, this is a rare opportunity to showcase your creativity and leadership in an exceptional environment.
You'll lead a large, passionate team delivering outstanding food for pupils, staff, hospitality, and high-end events — working closely with the on-site senior leadership team to continuously elevate the food offer.
This is a busy, high-impact role suited to a driven culinary professional who thrives on quality, innovation, and excellence.
What We Offer
We recognise your hard work and reward it with a comprehensive benefits package including:
* Mostly Monday to Friday working (some weekends required)
* Contributory pension scheme
* Career Pathways & MyLearning development programmes
* Digital GP access for you and your immediate family
* Exclusive travel discounts (TUI, Expedia, Booking.com & more)
* Supermarket savings (Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons & more)
* Up to 44% off cinema tickets
* Cashback rewards across a wide range of brands
* Free wellness, mindfulness & exercise classes
* Discounts and offers you can share with friends and family
Plus ongoing support and development within one of the UK's leading catering and support service providers.
About the Role
As Executive Chef, you will:
* Plan, organise and direct all food preparation and production
* Take a hands-on leadership approach across pupil dining, staff feeding, hospitality and events
* Drive exceptional quality and innovation in hospitality delivery
* Lead food safety, H&S and COSHH compliance
* Implement food monitoring and cost control procedures
* Manage kitchen budgets and ensure financial targets are met
* Inspire, develop and motivate a large brigade
About You
We're looking for someone who:
* Has proven experience as an Executive Chef or strong Head Chef in large-scale catering
* Has delivered high volumes while maintaining a premium, personalised feel
* Is an exceptional people leader who can train, develop and inspire
* Demonstrates real passion for food and outstanding customer service
* Is innovative and up to date with current food trends
* Has strong financial acumen and commercial awareness
* Maintains the highest culinary and operational standards
* Brings a proactive, "can-do" hands-on attitude
About Us
As part of Compass you'll help to feed people, fuel progress and forge connections in around 6,000 venues. Join us to grow your career with the industry leader, and get competitive pay, great perks and unrivalled opportunities for learning and development, at one of the UK's biggest businesses.
Job Reference: com/1102/41402001/52772280/R/SU #Lodestone House
Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!