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- Tasks: Lead a passionate kitchen team and create delicious menus that make a difference.
- Company: Join Aramark UK, a company that values work-life balance and culinary excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, on-site parking, discounts, and generous holiday entitlement.
- Other info: Opportunities for growth with training and apprenticeships available.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a unique environment while pursuing your culinary passion.
- Qualifications: Experience as a chef and ability to pass security vetting.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 35000 £ per year.
Location: IRC Campsfield, Kidlington
Pay rate: £16.50 per hour
Contract type: Permanent, full-time, 40 hours per week, 3 on 3 off
Shift pattern: 12-hour shifts, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Bring your passion for food to a place where your skills make a genuine difference. Aramark UK is looking for a committed and motivated Head Chef to lead our team at IRC Campsfield, Kidlington. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced chef who wants work–life balance without stepping away from the craft they love. You will be responsible for the daily operation of the kitchen, cost efficiency, and production of menus in line with agreed budgets. Working with kitchen staff and enhanced prisoners.
To be eligible for this role, due to the sector requirements: you must have lived in the UK for the past 5 years and have a legal right to work and must be able to pass full security vetting and DBS checks.
Why join us?
- Free meals on shift
- Free on-site parking
- Blue Light Discount Card (after probation)
- Employee Assistance Programme in-house Mental Health Champions
- Access to our Employee Benefits app – save on supermarket shops, weekend treats, and more
- Life assurance, pension contributions, and generous holiday entitlement (with the option to buy more)
- Real opportunities for development – we promote from within, offer apprenticeships, and provide ongoing training to support your progression.
What you'll do: Training
Head Chef employer: Aramark
Contact Detail:
Aramark Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow chefs and industry contacts on social media or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your culinary skills! Consider hosting a pop-up event or cooking demonstration to showcase your talent. This not only gets your name out there but also gives potential employers a taste of what you can do.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission, especially in a unique setting like IRC Campsfield. We want to see your passion for food and leadership!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and benefits right there, making it easier for you to tailor your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When writing your application, let your love for cooking shine through! Share your culinary journey and what drives you to create remarkable dishes. We want to see your personality and passion reflected in your words.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head Chef role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in managing kitchen operations and working with diverse teams. We appreciate when applicants take the time to align their skills with our needs.
Be Clear About Your Experience: In your application, be specific about your previous roles and responsibilities. Mention any experience with budget management and menu planning, as these are key aspects of the job. We love details that show how you can contribute to our team!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy and straightforward – just a few clicks and you’re done!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aramark
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
As a Head Chef, you'll need to showcase your culinary expertise. Make sure you’re familiar with the menus you’ve created in the past and be ready to discuss your favourite dishes, cooking techniques, and how you manage food costs. This will demonstrate your passion and knowledge.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
You’ll be leading a team, so it’s crucial to highlight your leadership style. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed kitchen staff, resolved conflicts, or trained new chefs. This will show that you can create a positive working environment.
✨Understand the Unique Environment
Since this role involves working in a unique setting, do some research on IRC Campsfield and its operations. Be prepared to discuss how you would adapt your cooking and management style to fit the needs of the kitchen and the enhanced prisoners.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions to ask about their kitchen operations, team dynamics, and opportunities for development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.