At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead catering operations, ensuring food excellence and team development across multiple outlets.
- Company: Join Compass Group UK&I, a leader in Defence and Government services.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, onsite parking, discounts, and wellness classes.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while developing your culinary career.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as an Executive Head Chef with strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and grow your career with excellent opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 45000 £ per year.
We are seeking an exceptional Executive Head Chef to lead the complete catering operation across multiple outlets at MOD Abbey Wood. This high-impact role oversees BOH & FOH operations, hospitality services, and supports our retail café outlets when required. You will champion food excellence, service quality, and team development across all catering areas.
About the Role
- Lead daily BOH & FOH operations across restaurants, kitchens, hospitality, and occasionally retail cafés.
- Deliver high-quality food production and presentation in line with company standards and client expectations.
- Ensure full compliance with Food Safety, Health & Safety, and all statutory procedures.
- Maintain spotless kitchen environments, safe equipment, and accurate food safety documentation.
- Oversee ordering, stock control, waste reduction, and budget adherence.
- Take full responsibility for hospitality services - menu planning, costing, and delivering exceptional events.
- Develop, mentor, and inspire your team to reach their full potential, including apprentices and trainees.
- Manage rotas, labour planning, and team performance to support operational success.
- Implement and promote menu cycles and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Role model the ESS Way values and Compass DNA behaviours at all times.
About You
- Proven experience as an Executive Head Chef or Senior Head Chef within multi-outlet catering.
- Strong leadership skills with experience building and developing high-performing teams.
- A passion for food, customer service, and maintaining exceptional standards.
- Confident managing both BOH & FOH, hospitality service, and supporting retail cafés.
- Strong financial awareness with a track record of meeting budgets and performance targets.
- Well-organised, adaptable, and able to thrive under pressure.
- IT literate with excellent communication skills.
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:
- Free meals
- Onsite free car parking
- 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
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.
Locations
Executive Chef in Newport, Wales employer: ESS
Contact Detail:
ESS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Chef in Newport, Wales
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the culinary world, attend industry events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the hunt for an Executive Head Chef role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Consider hosting a pop-up event or cooking demonstration to display your culinary talents. This not only gets your name out there but also gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their kitchen.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s values and menu offerings. Tailor your responses to highlight how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in areas like food excellence and team development. We want to see that passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us. Let’s get you into that Executive Head Chef role!
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Chef in Newport, Wales
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your experience as an Executive Head Chef or in a similar role. We want to see how you've led teams and managed operations, so don’t hold back on those juicy details!
Be Specific About Your Skills: Tailor your application to showcase your strong leadership skills and financial awareness. Mention specific examples of how you've met budgets and performance targets in the past. This will help us see how you can contribute to our team.
Keep It Professional Yet Personal: While we love a professional tone, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through! Share your passion for food and customer service, and how you embody the values we cherish at StudySmarter.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at ESS
✨Know Your Culinary Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your culinary techniques and food safety regulations. Be ready to discuss your experience with BOH and FOH operations, as well as how you've maintained high standards in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've developed and mentored your team in the past. Highlight specific instances where your leadership made a difference in team performance or customer satisfaction.
✨Be Financially Savvy
Understand the financial aspects of running a kitchen, including budgeting and stock control. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully managed costs while maintaining quality in your previous positions.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Food
Let your enthusiasm for food and service shine through during the interview. Share your ideas for menu planning and how you would implement continuous improvement initiatives to elevate the dining experience.