Head Chef Apply now

Head Chef

Winchester Full-Time 28800 - 43200 £ / year (est.)
Apply now
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a team to create exceptional culinary experiences and manage kitchen operations.
  • Company: Join Compass Group UK&I, a leader in the food service industry with 6,000 venues.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, great perks, and unmatched learning opportunities.
  • Why this job: Be part of a diverse culture that celebrates individuality and fosters career growth.
  • Qualifications: Must have City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or NVQ equivalent and experience as a Head Chef.
  • Other info: Work 39 weeks per year with shifts across 5 out of 7 days.

The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.

We’re currently recruiting an ambitious Head Chef to help us create exceptional food experiences for Chartwells on a full time basis, contracted to 40 hours per week. As a Head Chef, you will be responsible for creating an outstanding culinary experience. In return, you will have the chance to progress your career with a company that invests in its people, celebrates individuality, and rewards and recognises employees who go beyond the plate. Could you bring your spark to Chartwells? Here’s what you need to know before applying for a Head Chef position with Compass Group UK&I. Here’s an idea of what your shift patterns will be: 5 out of 7 days Please note: This role is contracted to 39 weeks per year Your key responsibilities will include: Preparing delicious, high-quality food that delights our clients and customers Identifying opportunities to improve our food service Creating a positive kitchen environment where your team feel welcomed and supported Delivering our tasty food concepts to our customers Representing Compass Group UK&I and maintaining a positive brand image Ordering food, looking after stock control and controlling food waste Overseeing kitchen cleaning responsibilities to maintain hygiene standards Managing budgets and successfully meeting financial targets Complying with Food Handling & Hygiene standards Complying with Health & Safety regulations Our ideal Head Chef will: Hold a City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or NVQ equivalent Create a positive work environment where the whole team can thrive Be a brilliant communicator and easily build relationships Have experience in a similar Head Chef role Strive for excellence in an enthusiastic and motivated manner Take initiative and make decisions that are right for our customers Have a desire to succeed in your role Possess the ability to work under pressure Demonstrate exceptional timekeeping and reliability Have a safety-first mind set Passionate about food As part of Compass you’ll help to feed people, fuel progress and forge connections in around 6,000 venues. Join us to grow your career with the industry leader, and get competitive pay, great perks and unrivalled opportunities for learning and development, at one of the UK’s biggest businesses. Job Reference: com/1012/(phone number removed)/(phone number removed)/BU 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

Head Chef employer: Compass Group

At Chartwells, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values individuality and invests in the growth of our team members. As a Head Chef, you'll enjoy a supportive work culture that encourages creativity and excellence, along with competitive pay and unique learning opportunities within one of the UK's largest businesses. Join us to not only create outstanding culinary experiences but also to thrive in an environment that celebrates diversity and empowers you to reach your full potential.
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Contact Detail:

Compass Group Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head Chef

✨Tip Number 1

Showcase your culinary creativity! When you network or during interviews, share specific examples of unique dishes you've created or innovative food concepts you've implemented. This will demonstrate your ability to deliver exceptional food experiences.

✨Tip Number 2

Emphasize your leadership skills. As a Head Chef, you'll need to create a positive kitchen environment. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully managed teams in the past and fostered a supportive atmosphere.

✨Tip Number 3

Familiarize yourself with Compass Group UK&I's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to diversity and employee development can help you align your personal goals with the company's vision, making you a more attractive candidate.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your experience with food safety and hygiene standards. Being able to articulate your knowledge and practices in maintaining high standards will show that you prioritize safety and quality in the kitchen.

We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef

Culinary Expertise
Menu Development
Food Safety and Hygiene Standards
Budget Management
Team Leadership
Communication Skills
Time Management
Stock Control
Problem-Solving Skills
Creativity in Food Presentation
Ability to Work Under Pressure
Customer Service Orientation
Health & Safety Compliance
Passion for Food

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience as a Head Chef. Focus on your culinary skills, leadership abilities, and any achievements in previous roles that demonstrate your capability to create exceptional food experiences.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for food and your vision for creating a positive kitchen environment. Mention specific examples of how you've improved food service or led a team successfully in the past.

Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your qualifications, such as City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or NVQ equivalent. This will help demonstrate that you meet the essential criteria for the role.

Showcase Your Personality: Since the company values individuality, let your personality shine through in your application. Share your culinary philosophy and what drives your passion for food, as well as how you foster a positive work environment.

How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group

✨Showcase Your Culinary Passion

During the interview, express your love for food and cooking. Share specific examples of dishes you've created that delighted customers, and explain your creative process in developing new recipes.

✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills

As a Head Chef, you'll need to lead a team effectively. Discuss your experience in creating a positive kitchen environment and how you support and motivate your team to excel.

✨Highlight Your Financial Acumen

Be prepared to talk about your experience with budgeting and cost control. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed food costs and reduced waste in previous roles.

✨Emphasize Compliance and Safety

Show your understanding of food handling, hygiene standards, and health & safety regulations. Discuss how you ensure compliance in the kitchen and maintain high standards of cleanliness and safety.

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  • Head Chef

    Winchester
    Full-Time
    28800 - 43200 £ / year (est.)
    Apply now

    Application deadline: 2026-12-18

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    Compass Group

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