Executive Head Chef

Join Our Team as a Executive Head Chef – Make an Impact Every Day

Location: Churcher's College, Ramshill, Petersfield. Hants GU31 4AS
Days/Shift Pattern: Mon, Tues, Weds, Thurs, Fri
Working Hours: 7am - 4pm
Total Hours Per Week: 40hrs
Salary: £50,000 to £55,000 Depending on experience per annum

Perks: Uniform and safety shoes provided

Are you a skilled and experienced chef with a strong background in high-volume catering? We’re looking for an Executive Head Chef to lead the kitchen at Churcher’s College in Petersfield, part of the Independents by Sodexo family. This role is fast-paced and demanding, requiring the ability to deliver circa 1200 high-quality meals while maintaining exceptional standards.

As Executive Head Chef, you’ll be at the heart of our bustling kitchen, ensuring efficient operations, top-tier food quality, and a motivated team. From menu planning to staff training, hygiene compliance to food presentation, your leadership will be key in delivering a seamless and excellent catering service. You'll also have opportunities to support exciting functions and events alongside the Catering Manager.

If you thrive in a high-volume environment, have a passion for fresh, innovative food, and are ready to lead a dedicated team, we want to hear from you! Bring your expertise and energy to Churcher’s College, where you’ll play a vital role in delivering outstanding dining experiences.

What you'll do

• To organise and assist in the preparation and presentation of all meals service at the required times and to the required standard.
• To ensure that the Company and Statutory Regulations pertaining to the safe and hygienic operation of the kitchen and ancillary areas are adhered to by all members of staff and visitors in the absence of management.
• To ensure that Churcher’s College hospitality is a 5* standard, to organise and prepare any special functions which may sometimes be outside of normal working hours.
• To train and mentor the chefs to produce a consistent high standard of food for the core catering operation at Churcher’s College
• To manage menu planning, overrotas, orders, and receiving, checking and storing deliveries . To complete the menu purchase planner and recipe cards for all main meals.
• To ensure that the kitchen porters work as an efficient team ensuring that the kitchen is kept to the highest standard of cleanliness

What We’re Looking For

• Experienced senior chef who has led and operated in a busy, client facing environment.
• Direct leadership experience of chef/kitchen team.
• Ownership and accountability of the role and that of their team.
• Computer literate
• Ability to work efficiently and competently in a busy environment.
• Excellent time management and organisational skills
• Able to demonstrate positive attitude to self-development, willingness to learn in the role and identify own training needs.
• High level of self-motivation and recognition of a flexible approach to the role.
• 706/2 or NVQ chef qualifications, or equivalent
• Strong leadership skills to motivate, communicate and all elements to lead a team.
• Strong ability to undertake all appropriate training to further both skill and knowledge within the role held.

What We Offer

At Sodexo, this is more than just a job—it’s your chance to be part of something greater. We celebrate individuality, encourage purpose-driven work, and empower you to succeed on your own terms. Here’s what you can expect when you join us:

• A positive work-life balance within a school environment
• Opportunities for training, progression, and career development
• A collaborative and supportive team culture
• The chance to make a real impact within a prestigious educational setting

Additional Perks & Benefits

• Unlimited access to an online mental health and wellbeing support platform.

• An Employee Assistance Programme for legal, financial, and personal support.

• 24/7 access to a virtual GP service.

• Exclusive discounts for you, your family, and friends through the Sodexo Discounts Scheme.

• Membership in the Mercer Aspire Pension Plan to help you save for your future.

• Learning and development opportunities to enhance your career growth.

• A Bike to Work Scheme, supporting both your fitness and the environment.

Ready to Be Part of Something Greater?

If you're looking for an opportunity where you can bring your passion, skills, and ambition to a company that truly values you, then this is it. Apply today and take the next step in your Sodexo journey.

Friendly customers. Vibrant communities. Exciting careers.

Please note: Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we receive a high number of applications.
Sodexo and our Clients are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Certain roles will require applicants to undergo screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (UK) and / or Disclosure Scotland (Scotland)

File Downloads

• HR-5933_Benefits UK Brochure V9.pdf
• Executive Head Chef JD Churcher's College 13052026.docx