At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and innovate exceptional menus across multiple outlets.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking culinary team focused on quality and excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including discounts and wellness classes.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth and to inspire a high-performing kitchen team.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in a fast-paced environment while developing your culinary career.
- Qualifications: Expert culinary skills and proven leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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
Are you a dynamic and innovative culinary leader ready to take charge of a large and complex food service operations? We're looking for an Executive Chef to lead our culinary vision, drive exceptional food quality, and inspire a high-performing kitchen team. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced and passionate Executive Chef who thrives in a fast-paced, multi-outlet environment and is committed to delivering excellence.
About the Role
As our Executive Chef, you will take overall ownership of food production across several outlets. Your influence will shape menu innovation, operational performance, client satisfaction, and the professional growth of your team. You'll ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality dishes, lead VIP and exclusive functions, and raise the bar in health, safety, and operational excellence. Working 5 days over 7.
Key Responsibilities
- Customer & Client Satisfaction
- Develop, innovate, and approve menus
- Oversee VIP events and exclusive functions
- Ensure food quality standards are achieved consistently across all operations
- Operational Excellence
- Lead a strong health & safety culture across all kitchens
- Achieve food production, labour, and GP targets
- Drive continuous improvement as part of the contract leadership team
- Recruit, train, and develop the culinary team, ensuring strong succession planning
- Support apprenticeship programmes
- Oversee food purchasing, stock control, and cost management
- Perform additional duties as reasonably requested
Health & Safety
Champion and maintain high health-and-safety standards at all times.
About You
Essential
- Expert culinary skills
- Proven experience in a Head Chef or Executive Chef role
- Strong, influential leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate
- Solid business management capability within a kitchen environment
Desirable
- NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery or equivalent
- Level 3 / Intermediate Food Hygiene qualification
Additional Requirements
- Uniform and PPE provided
- Completion of One Compass Welcome Induction and on-site training required
Why Join Us?
You'll be joining a forward-thinking team where quality, innovation, and excellence are at the heart of everything we do. You'll have the autonomy to shape culinary direction, develop your team, and make a meaningful impact across a major contract.
Executive Chef - East Sussex in Eastbourne employer: Compass Group
Join a dynamic and innovative culinary team in East Sussex, where your expertise as an Executive Chef will be rewarded with a comprehensive benefits package, including a contributory pension scheme, exclusive travel discounts, and wellness classes. Our forward-thinking work culture prioritises quality and excellence, offering you the opportunity to lead a high-performing kitchen team while benefiting from career growth through our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Chef - East Sussex in Eastbourne
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Compass Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Compass Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Compass Group directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Chef - East Sussex in Eastbourne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Compass Group and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
