At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create delicious meals for Service Personnel.
- Company: Join Compass Group UK&I, a leader in Defence and Government catering.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme, and exclusive discounts on travel and shopping.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and a supportive, diverse workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by delivering high-quality food in a vibrant, structured environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Chef with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 32465 - 32465 £ per year.
Salary: 32,465 per annum
Shift hours: Full Time
We are looking for an experienced, hands-on Sous Chef to support the delivery of high-quality catering within the Sergeants Mess at Blandford Camp. This is a fantastic opportunity for a strong kitchen professional who enjoys leading from the front, working closely with their team, and producing excellent food in a structured, high-volume environment. This role combines daily feeding for Service Personnel with a strong emphasis on functions and events, which form a key part of the catering offer.
What you'll be doing:
- Preparing and delivering high-quality, nutritious meals for Service Personnel
- Supporting daily feeding numbers of approximately 40 Sergeants and up to 350 Junior Ranks
- Playing a key role in the planning and delivery of functions and events (core focus of the role)
- Leading from the front in a hands-on Sous Chef position
- Supporting, motivating and developing a kitchen team of around 15 colleagues
- Ensuring excellent food presentation, consistency, and service standards
- Managing food ordering, stock control, and waste minimisation
- Maintaining the highest standards of food hygiene, cleanliness, and safety
- Supporting budget control and contributing to financial targets
- Ensuring full compliance with Food Safety and Health & Safety regulations
What we're looking for:
- Proven experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Chef in a similar environment
- A hands-on leader who enjoys working alongside their team
- Strong organisational and communication skills
- Ability to support and manage a team effectively
- Calm under pressure in a high-volume catering setting
- Reliable, flexible, and able to adapt to changing Mess schedules
- A safety-first mindset with a genuine passion for food and service
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
- Unwind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
- You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families
Please note: This role is contracted to weeks per year.
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.
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!
Sous Chef - Full Time - Blandford employer: Compass Group
At Compass Group UK&I, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment for our Sous Chef at Blandford Camp. With a strong emphasis on employee growth through our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes, alongside a comprehensive benefits package that includes healthcare, travel discounts, and wellness classes, we ensure our team members feel valued and empowered. Join us in delivering high-quality catering while enjoying the unique opportunity to work within the Defence sector, where your contributions truly make a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef - Full Time - Blandford
✨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 Sous Chef - Full Time - Blandford
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!
