Head Chef
Be part of something greater.
- Job reference: SDX/TP/1300019/152487
- Location: Edinburgh
- Job type: Full Time - 40 hours per week
- Salary: £35000 per annum
- Closing date: 23 January 2026
About the role
Grounded in Scotland, Ready for the World
Head Chef – Edinburgh Academy Junior School, 10 Arboretum Road, Edinburgh, EH3 5PL
About Us:
The Edinburgh Academy is a modern, vibrant, co-educational school for 2–18 year olds. Located on two historic sites in the heart of Scotland’s capital, we provide the very best in 21st-century education. Our ethos, size, and genuine individual care make us sector-leading in supporting the unique talents, needs, and ambitions of all.
Hospitality with a Work-Life Balance
At Sodexo and Edinburgh Academy, we believe you can have a rewarding career in hospitality without constant weekend shifts or late nights. Join a passionate team, deliver exceptional service, and still enjoy your evenings and weekends to recharge.
The Role:
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Head Chef to lead our catering operations at the Junior School. This is a fantastic opportunity for a dynamic leader with creativity, passion, and drive to deliver excellence in food and service.
Key Details
- Salary: £35,000 per annum
- Hours: 40 hrs per week
- Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7.00am–3.30pm (occasional weekend business as required)
- Enhanced PVG checks required
- Driving licence and own car essential
What You’ll Do:
As Head Chef, you’ll lead from the front, combining hands-on culinary expertise with strong leadership skills to inspire your team. You will:
- Deliver high-quality catering and hospitality, always exceeding client expectations.
- Lead menu planning, food production, and kitchen operations with creativity and precision.
- Uphold the Fresh Food from Scratch philosophy across all services.
- Maintain the highest standards of hygiene, safety, and compliance.
- Manage budgets effectively and ensure cost-efficient operations.
- Train, motivate, and support your team to achieve their best.
- Champion allergen management and ensure accurate, up-to-date information is always available.
- Organise and oversee special functions and hospitality events as required.
About You:
We’re looking for someone who combines culinary excellence with strong leadership skills.
You will bring:
- Professional catering experience ESSENTIAL, preferably in contract catering/large scale catering.
- Experience leading a busy, client-facing kitchen brigade.
- Strong budget management and computer literacy.
- NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent chef qualifications.
- Food Safety Level 2 or above.
- A proven ability to perform under pressure with excellent time management.
- A positive, enthusiastic, and self-motivated approach.
- Flexibility, decisiveness, and the ability to inspire others.
(Additional training such as RIPHH & IOSH Certificates is desirable—or a willingness to complete within 4 months.)
What We Offer:
At Sodexo, this is more than just a job—it’s a career where you’ll be valued, supported, and empowered.
You can expect:
- Competitive salary and excellent benefits.
- Clear opportunities for growth and development.
- A diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace.
- The chance to make a real impact in an environment that values sustainability and service excellence.
Additional Perks:
- Unlimited access to online mental health and wellbeing support.
- Employee Assistance Programme (legal, financial, personal support).
- 24/7 access to a virtual GP service.
- Sodexo Discounts Scheme for you, family, and friends.
- Mercer Aspire Pension Plan.
- Learning & development opportunities.
- Bike to Work Scheme.
Ready to Join Us?
If you’re a passionate, experienced Head Chef who thrives on leadership, creativity, and delivering excellence, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply today and take the next step in your Sodexo journey.
Please note: Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if a high volume of applications is received.
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KEY BENEFITS
-
Advice and guidance
Get help with legal, financial, personal or work issues whenever you need it. -
Pension Plan
Save effectively for your future when you join the Sodexo Pension Plan. -
Wellbeing support
Unlimited access to online support for your mental health, 24/7. -
Generous leave
For holidays, care needs or major life events, we’ll help you rest and recharge. -
Discounts and savings
Enjoy great deals from leading retailers and use our Bike to Work scheme -
Virtual GP
24-hour access to video or phone consultations for you and your family.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
At our company, we believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Roles at Sodexo are designed to empower individuals from all backgrounds. We are committed to creating an environment that values equity and supports the growth of all employees, ensuring that everyone can contribute to and benefit from our collective success.
Social Impact
Ever since we started, we’ve had a clear purpose – to do some good in our communities through helping people. Today, that purpose is still a huge part of who we are. And every one of our colleagues helps that happen.
We’re committed to volunteering our time, resources, skills and knowledge – more than 50% of colleagues contribute to thousands of volunteer hours every year. And our Charitable Foundation has now donated over £9 million to charities and good causes across the country.
Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH3 5PL
Register your interest
Join us at Sodexo and explore the exciting career opportunities we offer! Whether you're interested in hospitality, facilities management, or food services, we invite you to set up a profile and become part of our vibrant team.