Head Chef
Be part of something greater.
- Job reference: SDX/TP/1159297/156343
- Location: Lowestoft
- Job type: Full Time - 40 hours per week
- Salary: £ 14.60 per hour plus Sodexo benefits
- Closing date: 30 April 2026
About the role
Hours: 40 per week
Schedule: Monday-Friday
Shift: 06:30am – 2:30pm
Pay: £14.60 per hour + Sodexo rewards and benefits.
Perks: Free onsite parking + OnShift meal
Planning your commute? Check local routes here: Plan Your Journey, (destination: NR32 1XQ)
About the Role
We’re looking for a Head Chef to lead a busy factory canteen, delivering fresh, high-quality meals in a fast-paced environment. This role is hands-on and team-focused, you’ll besetting the standard in the kitchen while keeping service running smoothly day to day.
You’ll have the chance to shape menus, guide your team, and ensure every meal meets high standards for taste, nutrition, and consistency.
This role would suit an experienced Head Chef, but it’s also a great opportunity for a strong Sous Chef ready to take the next step and develop their career with Sodexo.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Supporting all aspects of food preparation, cooking, baking, and presentation to a consistently high standard
- Leading and developing a team of Food Service Assistants, keeping operations organised and service-focused
- Planning menus, managing stock, and keeping tight control of costs
- Ensuring full compliance with food safety, allergen requirements, hygiene standards, and COSHH regulations
- Monitoring feedback and carrying out regular checks to maintain and improve quality
- Making sure kitchen equipment is safe, well-maintained, and used correctly
- Following company policies and supporting training and daily operational needs
What You Bring
- Experience leading a kitchen team in a Head Chef (or similar) role
- Strong communication skills and a practical, flexible approach
- Level 3 Food Safety qualification and solid knowledge of health & safety
- Confidence managing records and kitchen operations
- Awareness of COSHH principles
- Experience with EPOS systems (desirable)
- Full clean driving licence (desirable)
What we offer:
Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way. In addition, we offer:
- Mental health & wellbeing support
- Employee Assistance Programme for personal, legal, and financial advice
- 24/7 virtual GP & lifestyle rewards
- Discounts for you & family
- Financial tools & retirement plan
- Cycle to Work & Paid Volunteering Day
Join our team as a Head Chef and take pride in leading a skilled kitchen team, delivering high-quality, delicious meals, upholding exceptional culinary standards, and supporting smooth dining operations across the site!
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.
Lowestoft, United Kingdom, NR32 1XQ
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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.