Sous ChefLocation: DMS Whittington Business Area: ESS – Defence, Marine & Aerospace (DMA) Reporting to: Head Chef / Catering & Accommodation ManagerAbout the RoleWe are looking for a passionate and experienced Sous Chef to support the culinary operation at DMS Whittington. This is a hands on leadership role where you will assist in managing the kitchen team, ensuring high standards of food quality, safety, and service are consistently delivered.You will play a key part in menu delivery, food production, compliance, and the ongoing development of a skilled and motivated kitchen brigade. Working as part of a team of 12, supporting service delivery for 120–250 covers per service.Key ResponsibilitiesSupport the Head Chef in planning, preparing and delivering meals to agreed standards and service timesLead and supervise kitchen teams during shifts, ensuring smooth and efficient operationsMaintain high standards of food quality, presentation, and portion controlEnsure full compliance with Food Safety, Health & Safety, allergen, and hygiene standardsAssist with stock control, ordering, waste management, and cost controlTrain, coach, and develop junior kitchen staffDeputise for the Head Chef when requiredMaintain accurate kitchen documentation, including temperature logs and cleaning schedulesAbout YouYou are a committed culinary professional with strong organisational skills and a hands-on approach. You thrive in a structured but fast-paced environment and are comfortable leading teams while delivering consistent food quality.Essential Skills & Experience:Proven experience as a Sous Chef or strong Chef de Partie ready to step upLevel 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (essential)Strong understanding of food production methods and kitchen operationsExperience working to set menus and service timesGood communication and team leadership skillsAbility to work under pressure and adapt to changing operational needsDesirable:Experience in contract catering or high-volume food serviceLevel 3 Food Hygiene CertificateKnowledge of allergens, nutrition and dietary requirementsPrevious experience in a defence, education, or healthcare settingWhat We OfferGreat work life balanceDiscounted concert ticketsAccess to 30,000 national & local employee discountsAVIVA DigicareFree meals on duty, free gym membership, free on-site car parkingA stable, permanent role within a reputable contract catering organisationStructured working environment with clear processes and standardsOpportunities for career development and progressionSupportive management and team-focused cultureWe ensure you\'re rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:Free mealsFree on-site gymOnsite free car parkingDiscounted Event ticketsContributory pension schemeGrow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmesQuick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefitsExclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many moreSave money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury\'s, Morrisons and many moreUp to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbusterReceive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brandsUn-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classesYou can share all discounts and offers with your friends and familiesAbout UsPart of Compass Group UK&I, ESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland. We support 250 UK military establishments, high profile police, secure environments and government sites, along with a range of onshore and offshore facilities including platforms, drilling rigs, floatels and offices for the energy sector. We know that a friendly face makes all the difference, so we look for people who are passionate about delivering excellent customer service, at all levels, to join our teams.Job Reference: com/1205/94501001/52807686/SU DefenceCompass 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!