Chef Manager£32,595 per annum | 35 hours per weekMonday to Friday with flexibility to support weekends when required (overtime paid)Join Compass Group UK&I at the heart of the Defence sector and lead a dedicated team delivering outstanding food and service every day.The RoleAs Chef Manager at PWG Barracks, you will take full ownership of the catering operation, combining hands-on kitchen leadership with strong operational and support functions. You will lead from the front, supporting your team on the floor and in the kitchen while ensuring smooth, efficient, and fully compliant service.Working closely with the General Manager, you will play a key role in maintaining high standards, supporting business needs, and stepping in to support weekend operations when required, with overtime paid.Key ResponsibilitiesLeading, motivating, and supporting teams to deliver excellent food and customer serviceTaking a hands-on approach, supporting kitchen and service operations as requiredManaging budgets, stock control, ordering, and operational planningMonitoring stock levels and coordinating orders across multiple service pointsCompleting weekly and monthly accounts accurately and on timeConducting internal audits and ensuring full compliance with company policies and legislationReviewing KPIs with your Line Manager and driving continuous improvementIdentifying and implementing new food and service concepts to enhance the customer experience and drive salesCoaching, developing, and supporting your team to achieve their full potentialMaintaining the highest standards of Health & Safety and food hygiene at all timesAbout YouYou are a confident, motivated, and hands-on leader who enjoys being involved in day-to-day operations while delivering consistent, high-quality results.You'll bring:A genuine passion for great food and excellent serviceA minimum of 2 years' management experience within catering, hospitality, or a related sectorProven experience leading teams in a fast-paced environmentStrong financial, organisational, and planning skillsExcellent communication and people-management abilitiesA flexible, proactive approach with a willingness to support business needs when requiredWhat We OfferWe recognise your commitment and reward it with a competitive benefits package, including:Contributory pension schemeCareer development through Career Pathways and MyLearning programmesDigital GP and healthcare benefits for you and your familyExclusive travel and retail discounts with brands such as TUI, Tesco, and ExpediaUp to 44% off cinema ticketsCashback rewards with selected partnersFree wellbeing, mindfulness, and fitness sessionsThe ability to share selected benefits with friends and familyAbout ESS – Part of Compass Group UK&IESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy division of Compass Group UK&I. We proudly support over 250 UK military establishments, secure environments, and energy sector sites. Our teams create welcoming spaces and deliver meals that make a difference — every single day.At Compass Group UK&I, we celebrate diversity and inclusion, ensuring everyone can be themselves, feel valued, and thrive.Job Reference: com/1310/95125001/52754386/R/SU Defence