Executive Head Chef

Job Introduction

• 40 hours per week
• Monday to Friday
• 0800 - 1700 with flexibility required
• £30,000 - £32,500 per annum
• Sodexo rewards and benefits

Job Introduction

Sodexobelieves that government agencies should foster an environment of respect,operating with efficiency and effectiveness to promote productivity. Weprioritize employee well-being and play a vital role in fostering strongercommunities.

Are you a passionate and experienced culinary leader ready to take your career to the next level? We are seeking a dynamic Executive Head Chef to lead our kitchen team at Merville Barracks, Colchester, CO2 7UT in delivering outstanding food and hospitality services. In this high-impact role, you'll be at the heart of operations—driving culinary excellence, leading a skilled team, and ensuring exceptional service for our clients and customers. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, love developing innovative menus, and have a flair for team leadership and operational efficiency, we’d love to hear from you.

 Whatyou’ll do:

Operational Leadership

• Oversee day-to-day kitchen operations, ensuring effective shift delivery and adherence to service specifications.

• Manage catering delivery across the site including food preparation, cooking, presentation, storage, and disposal.

• Ensure consistency in food quality, presentation, and service in accordance with contractual and company standards.

• Supervise consumption of ingredients in line with recipe cards and maintain cost control.

• Ensure accurate use of Sodexo’s recipe management systems.

Team Management & Development

• Lead, motivate, and develop the culinary team, fostering a high-performance culture.

• Support recruitment, onboarding, and training of kitchen staff.

• Conduct regular team briefs, performance reviews, and address training and development needs.

• Supervise the team fairly and drive staff engagement.

• Promote high standards of hygiene, cleanliness, and uniform/PPE compliance.

Compliance & Governance

• Ensure compliance with food hygiene, health & safety, COSHH, fire safety, and Sodexo Safety Management System (SMS).

• Ensure accurate recording of food temperatures, fridge/freezer readings, and other safety documentation.

• Pass internal and external audits and manage stock/security of all kitchen assets.

• Manage allergen information and ensure the team is trained accordingly.

Client & Customer Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong client and customer relationships through professional service delivery.

• Handle complaints and feedback effectively, escalating issues when necessary.

• Represent the culinary team in client meetings and contribute to service reviews.

Financial & Resource Management

• Maintain labour and food costs within agreed budgets.

• Monitor and control stock levels, procurement, and wastage to ensure cost-effectiveness.

• Produce accurate documentation including weekly returns, menus, and costing sheets.

• Plan, cost, and implement consolidated menus across the business.

Service Excellence & Continuous Improvement

• Deliver service excellence aligned with Sodexo brand values and contractual expectations.

• Lead initiatives for food innovation and efficiency improvements.

• Ensure proper opening, handover, and closing procedures are followed.

• Strive for continuous improvement in all areas including productivity, cost control, and customer satisfaction.

What you bring:

• Previous experience in a senior catering operational role, preferably as a Head Chef.

• Professional cookery qualifications (e.g., City & Guilds 706/1 & 2, NVQ Level 2 & 3, HND or equivalent).

• Intermediate (Level 3) Food Safety certification.

• Strong leadership and people management skills, including HR-related functions.

• High attention to hygiene, safety, and food quality standards.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills.

• Strong financial and numerical aptitude for cost control and budgeting.

• Ability to work under pressure and lead by example.

 Desirable

• Experience working in a military or highly regulated environment.

• Level 3 CIEH Food Safety qualification or equivalent.

• Advanced leadership and strategic planning abilities.

• Proven track record in team development and food innovation.

• Analytical problem-solving and decision-making skills.

What we offer:

 Workingwith Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of somethinggreater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values youfor you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everydayactions; 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

Ready to be part ofsomething greater? Apply today!