Head Chef
Be part of something greater.
- Job reference: SDX/TP/1141780/162603
- Location: Royston
- Job type: Full Time - 40 Hours per week
- Salary: £19.00 per hour plus Sodexo Benefits
- Closing date: 16 October 2026
About the role
Job Title: Head Chef
Location: Royston
Contract: Permanent, 40 hours per week
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00am - 3:30pm
Rate of Pay: £19.00 per hour
About the Role
We’re looking for an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead our catering operation at the Johnson Matthey site in Royston.
This is a fantastic opportunity for an established chef with strong leadership skills who enjoys working in a busy, professional and client-facing environment. You’ll take responsibility for the day-to-day kitchen operation, leading and developing the team while ensuring consistently high standards of food, service, safety and presentation.
Working closely with the Catering Manager, you’ll also have the opportunity to contribute to menu development, special catering events and new ideas that keep our food offer fresh and engaging.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, motivate and develop the kitchen team to deliver outstanding food and service.
- Prepare and serve fresh, high-quality food while maintaining excellent presentation standards.
- Manage food costs, stock control and waste to achieve financial targets.
- Drive sales through creative menus, seasonal offers and promotions.
- Ensure full compliance with Food Safety, Health & Safety and company standards.
- Monitor kitchen performance, maintain high hygiene standards and achieve audit compliance.
- Deliver an exceptional customer experience during every service.
Skills & Experience
- Previous experience as a Head Chef, Executive Chef or Senior Sous Chef within high-volume catering.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop a team.
- Experience managing food costs, stock control and kitchen budgets.
- A passion for delivering fresh, high-quality food and outstanding customer service.
- Excellent knowledge of Food Safety, HACCP and Health & Safety legislation.
- Commercial awareness with the ability to maximise sales and profitability.
- Flexible approach to working hours, including shifts to support different services.
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 a range of resources, rewards and benefits for our colleagues and their families.
About Sodexo
At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better every day for everyone to build a better life for all. We are a global leader in services that improve Quality of Life, operating in 55 countries and serving over 100 million consumers each day. We believe in creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.
KEY BENEFITS
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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.
Royston, United Kingdom, SG8 5HE
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