Development Chef
Please Note: The application deadline for this job has now passed.
Job Introduction
As a Development Chef at Sodexo, based in a dynamic hybrid environment, you are not just a culinary expert; you are a trendsetter and a strategic innovator. This pivotal role positions you at the heart of our mission to redefine culinary excellence across the UK and Ireland, influencing our food management systems and elevating our service standards to unprecedented heights. By joining our team, you become part of a greater movement, one where your expertise not only shapes our culinary direction but also fosters a culture of innovation and excellence. At Sodexo, we don't just offer jobs; we craft career journeys where you can act with purpose and flourish in your unique way. Embrace this opportunity to make an indelible mark on our culinary landscape, where your passion for food and innovation meets our commitment to excellence and sustainability.
As the torchbearer of culinary innovation at Sodexo, you will lead the evolution of our food management systems, crafting recipes and menus that not only tantalise taste buds but also optimise costs and uphold the highest standards of quality and sustainability. Your work will directly contribute to establishing Sodexo as the undisputed culinary leader, driving excellence and innovation across every plate we serve. This role is your canvas to inspire change, champion excellence, and collaborate with a diverse team of passionate professionals, all committed to making every meal memorable.
What you’ll do:
- Spearhead the development and management of our service line, recipe, and menu content, ensuring alignment with our strategic goals and financial parameters.
- Act as a culinary ambassador, promoting the positive impact and seamless integration of our Food Management Systems (FMS) and DRIVE initiatives within the chef community.
- Drive continuous innovation in recipe and menu development, maintaining a keen eye on market trends and ingredient sustainability.
- Collaborate with the global team to ensure the optimisation of labour and food costs, enhancing overall financial and qualitative benefits.
- Support segment-specific culinary needs, adapting and innovating to meet diverse demands.
- Lead and participate in culinary initiatives, including training, product reviews, and competitions, to foster a culture of excellence and innovation.
- Review and enhance FMS content regularly to ensure compliance, relevance, and quality standards.
What you bring:
- Senior-level chef qualification with a rich background in menu and recipe development, ingredient procurement, and financial management.
- Proven experience with Food Management Systems and a high level of computer literacy, especially Excel.
- Demonstrated leadership abilities, with a track record of managing and motivating teams to achieve excellence.
- Comprehensive knowledge of current industry trends, with the ability to translate innovations into actionable culinary strategies.
- Exceptional relationship-building skills, capable of influencing and collaborating with a broad range of internal and external stakeholders.
- Flexible and adept at managing multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely and quality outcomes.
- Willingness to travel within the UK and Ireland as needed to support our culinary missions.
What we offer:
Circa £53,000 DOE + Annual Bonus + Excellent benefits package
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:
- Flexible and dynamic work environment
- Competitive compensation
- Access to ongoing training and development programs
- Countless opportunities to grow within the company