Job Description
Head Chef - Reading
Up to £42,000 DOE |
Monday - Friday 7am - 3.30pm
Ignite your culinary passion with fresh, seasonal ingredients in a role that offers creativity, leadership, and work-life balance.
Are you a flavour fanatic? A kitchen leader who lives and breathes innovation, sustainability, and culinary excellence? If you’re ready to take the lead in a premium contract catering kitchen with no weekend shifts, this could be your perfect next move.
We're on the hunt for a talented and enthusiastic Head Chef to join our dynamic team in Reading, where you'll take charge of crafting exceptional food using the finest ingredients for a prestigious site. This is your chance to run a professional kitchen with creative freedom, supported by a company that values quality, team development, and sustainability.
What You’ll Be Cooking Up
* Design and deliver seasonal, innovative menus that impress and inspire.
* Drive excellence in food quality and service execution.
* Champion sustainable sourcing and help lead the mission to net zero by 2030 .
* Build and lead a positive, supportive kitchen culture.
* Lead food safety, hygiene, and COSHH practices with precision.
* Monitor budgets and margins with a sharp eye for food costing, stock, and waste control.
We’re Looking For
* Previous Head Chef experience in contract catering with a flair for events and hospitality.
* Strong culinary and presentation skills - food that tastes amazing and looks stunning.
* Inspirational leadership - someone who can mentor and energise a team.
* Business-savvy mindset with a clear grasp of margins, purchasing, and compliance (HACCP, Natasha’s Law, allergens etc.).
* A genuine passion for food, hospitality, and exceeding expectations.
Perks & Benefits
* Fresh, free meals while on duty.
* Healthcare support including Medicash cashback plan, annual health checks & EAP.
* Pension, life assurance, and salary finance options.
* Shopping and lifestyle discounts via our Perks at Work platform.
* Recognition schemes - from Long Service Awards to peer-nominated prizes.
* Ongoing training and real career progression with Compass Group UK&I.
* A diverse, inclusive culture where you can truly be yourself and thrive.
This isn’t just another chef job — it’s a chance to make your mark at a flagship site, leading a passionate team and creating food that excites.
Apply now and bring your culinary creativity to life, with a role that lets you do what you love and enjoy life outside the kitchen.
Be bold. Be brilliant. Be the Head Chef that makes a difference.