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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious, high-quality meals and oversee menu changes.
- Company: Join Compass Group UK&I, a leader in food service for Defence and government sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy opportunities for career progression and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that values individuality and exceptional customer service.
- Qualifications: Must have culinary qualifications and experience in a similar role.
- Other info: Diversity is celebrated; we want you to thrive and be yourself at work.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Job Description
Location: St George’s Barracks, North LuffenhamPay Rate: £14.60 per hourHours: 40 per week (full-time, site-based)Shift Pattern: 5 days over 7 – mix of early, mid, and late shifts, including weekends as required
About the Role
ESS – Compass Group is seeking a skilled and motivated Chef to join our catering team at St George’s Barracks, North Luffenham. You will be responsible for preparing and serving fresh, high-quality meals for Service Personnel in a busy military dining environment.
Flexibility, teamwork, and strong food safety standards are essential as you support breakfast, lunch, and evening meal services throughout the week.
Meal Service Times (Monday–Sunday)
- Breakfast: 07:00 – 08:00
- Lunch: 12:00 – 13:30
- Evening Meal: 17:00 – 18:30
Shift Pattern (5 days over 7)
You will work a rotating mix of early, mid, and late shifts:
- Early: 06:00 – 14:00
- Mid: 08:00 – 16:30
- Late: 10:30 – 19:00
What We’re Looking For
- ?? Previous experience in a chef or catering role (essential)
- ?? Relevant qualification (e.g., NVQ Level 2) – desirable
- Strong knowledge of food hygiene and kitchen safety
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-focused environment
- Flexible, reliable, and positive attitude
What We Offer
- ? £14.60 per hour / 40 hours per week
- Free meals while on shift
- Free on-site parking
- Uniforms provided
- Opportunities for training and career progression with ESS – Compass Group
- Supportive and stable working environment
We ensure you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:
- Contributory pension scheme
- Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
- Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
- Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more
- Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and many more
- Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
- Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
- Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
- You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families
About Us
Part of Compass Group UK&I, ESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland. We support 250+ UK military establishments, high profile police, secure environments and government sites, along with a range of onshore and offshore facilities including platforms, drilling rigs, floatels and offices for the energy sector. We know that a friendly face makes all the difference, so we look for people who are passionate about delivering excellent customer service, at all levels, to join our teams.
Job Reference: com/0302/95297001/52673613/R/SU #Defence
Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive – because diversity is our strength!
Chef employer: Compass Group UK
Contact Detail:
Compass Group UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Showcase your culinary passion! When networking or during interviews, share specific examples of dishes you've created that delighted customers. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm and creativity in the kitchen.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Defence's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to exceptional service and community support can help you align your answers and show that you're a great fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with menu changes and customer feedback. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully implemented changes based on feedback in previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight your leadership skills! Since the role involves supervising a team, be prepared to talk about your experience in leading a kitchen team, resolving conflicts, and fostering a positive work environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your culinary skills and relevant experience. Emphasise any supervisory roles you've held and your qualifications, such as the City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or NVQ equivalent.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for food and customer service. Mention specific experiences where you improved food services or created new menus, and express your enthusiasm for working with Defence.
Highlight Relevant Certifications: Include any relevant certifications, such as your Food Hygiene certificate, in your application. This demonstrates your commitment to maintaining high standards in food safety and hygiene.
Showcase Your Teamwork Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've successfully worked within a team. Highlight your ability to listen to feedback and collaborate with others to enhance food services.
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group UK
✨Showcase Your Culinary Passion
During the interview, express your love for cooking and how it translates into creating exceptional food experiences. Share specific examples of dishes you've prepared that delighted customers, as this will demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment to quality.
✨Discuss Menu Innovation
Be prepared to talk about your experience with menu changes and how you approach creating new food concepts. Highlight any successful menu items you've introduced in previous roles and how they were received by customers.
✨Emphasise Team Leadership Skills
Since the role involves supervising a team, share your experiences in leading kitchen staff. Discuss how you motivate your team, handle conflicts, and ensure everyone is working towards the same goal of delivering excellent service.
✨Demonstrate Customer Focus
Illustrate your understanding of the importance of customer feedback in improving food services. Provide examples of how you've listened to customer suggestions in the past and implemented changes that enhanced their dining experience.
