Head Chef

Please note, due to security requirements, applicants must have been continuously resident in the UK for the past 3 years to be eligible for this position.

• 37.5 hours per week
• Monday to Friday (One weekend in two is required)
• Various Shift Patterns:
  • 05:30 till 13:30
  • 11:00 till 19:00
  • 16:15 till 00:15
• £18.17 per hour

Check your local transport links here: Plan Your Journey | Traveline - the destination you should input is OX10 6AA

We are looking to recruit a Head Chef to join Sodexo, based at RAF Benson in Wallingford.

As Head Chef, you will play a key role in leading culinary operations and managing the production of high-quality food and beverages for our Armed Forces personnel. Your expertise will ensure consistently excellent meals are delivered, supporting both operational effectiveness and team morale on site.

This is a fantastic opportunity to take ownership of a busy kitchen environment, lead a dedicated team, and make a real impact within a unique and rewarding setting.

What you’ll do:

• Lead and support a talented kitchen team, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and a positive working environment.
• Oversee and coordinate chefs at all levels, providing clear direction and support to help the team perform at its best.
• Manage rotas and shift patterns to ensure fair scheduling, operational coverage, and a healthy work-life balance for the team.
• Maintain the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and compliance with Environmental Health (EHO) and health & safety regulations.
• Plan and deliver varied, high-quality menus in line with military dining requirements, making smart use of stock and reducing waste wherever possible.
• Monitor stock levels and ensure food presentation consistently meets both Sodexo and client expectations.
• Work closely with Front of House teams to ensure a seamless service and excellent overall dining experience.
• Support the training and development of your team, helping colleagues grow and maintain high standards across all areas.

What you bring:

• NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts (or equivalent experience in a high-volume kitchen environment).
• Strong knowledge of food production, with a focus on consistency, quality, and presentation.
• Good understanding of allergens and food safety requirements to ensure safe dining for all.
• Confident leadership skills with the ability to motivate, support, and develop a team.
• Strong communication and IT skills, including experience with Microsoft Office.
• Highly organised with the ability to prioritise tasks and manage a busy workload effectively.
• Able to perform well under pressure, take feedback on board, and continuously improve standards.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high-quality service at all times.

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 Sodexo as a Head Chef and lead a talented kitchen team to deliver high-quality, great-tasting meals that make a real difference every day!

File Downloads

• 2025 Benefits UK Brochure V9.pdf