Head Chef - Reading

Head Chef – Reading

Up to £42,000 DOE | Monday – Friday 7am – 3.30pm

Ignite your culinary passion with fresh, seasonal ingredients in a role that offers creativity, leadership, and work-life balance.

Are you a flavour fanatic? A kitchen leader who lives and breathes innovation, sustainability, and culinary excellence? If you’re ready to take the lead in a premium contract catering kitchen with no weekend shifts, this could be your perfect next move.

What You’ll Be Cooking Up

• Design and deliver seasonal, innovative menus that impress and inspire.
• Drive excellence in food quality and service execution.
• Champion sustainable sourcing and help lead the mission to net zero by 2030.
• Build and lead a positive, supportive kitchen culture.
• Lead food safety, hygiene, and COSHH practices with precision.
• Monitor budgets and margins with a sharp eye for food costing, stock, and waste control.

We’re Looking For

• Previous Head Chef experience in contract catering with a flair for events and hospitality.
• Strong culinary and presentation skills – food that tastes amazing and looks stunning.
• Inspirational leadership – someone who can mentor and energise a team.
• Business-savvy mindset with a clear grasp of margins, purchasing, and compliance (HACCP, Natasha’s Law, allergens etc.).
• A genuine passion for food, hospitality, and exceeding expectations.

Perks & Benefits

• Fresh, free meals while on duty.
• Healthcare support including Medicash cashback plan, annual health checks & EAP.
• Pension, life assurance, and salary finance options.
• Shopping and lifestyle discounts via our Perks at Work platform.
• Recognition schemes – from Long Service Awards to peer-nominated prizes.
• Ongoing training and real career progression with Compass Group UK&I.
• A diverse, inclusive culture where you can truly be yourself and thrive.

This isn’t just another chef job — it’s a chance to make your mark at a flagship site, leading a passionate team and creating food that excites.

Apply now and bring your culinary creativity to life, with a role that lets you do what you love and enjoy life outside the kitchen.

Be bold. Be brilliant. Be the Head Chef that makes a difference.