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- Tasks: Lead a culinary team and create high-quality meals for armed forces personnel.
- Company: Join Sodexo, a company that values its employees and offers career growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, free parking, staff discounts, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: On-the-job training and apprenticeship opportunities available.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while working in a dynamic kitchen environment.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts or equivalent experience required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 40000 £ per year.
37.5 hours per week
Morning shift: 05:30 – 13:30.
Middle shift: 11:00 – 19:00.
Late shift: 16:15 – 00:15
Work every other weekend (one weekend in two)
£18.17 per hour
Free Car parking on site
10% Staff discount in on site shop
Family days with flying displays
Enjoy a Costa coffee and a cake at our onsite café the common room
Sodexo Rewards and Benefits Discounts at Sodexo partner brands
Due to security requirements you must have been continuously resident in UK for last 3 years to apply for this position
As a Head Chef at Sodexo, you will play a key role in overseeing the culinary operations and managing the production of food and beverages for our armed forces personnel. Your expertise will ensure the delivery of high‑quality meals that contribute to the operational success and morale of the team.
What You’ll Do
- Lead and manage the culinary team, ensuring smooth daily operations and providing guidance to the production team.
- Oversee and delegate responsibilities to sous chefs, commis chefs, chef de parties, and other kitchen staff to maintain efficiency.
- Schedule on and off‑duty shifts for your team, fostering a balanced work‑life environment to maintain morale and productivity.
- Ensure strict adherence to all Environmental Health and Safety (EHO) guidelines and monitor sanitation practices to guarantee compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Plan and execute menus, ensuring variety and quality while following the set military dining rotations.
- Make adjustments to menus as needed, optimizing the use of available stock and minimizing waste.
- Manage inventory and stock levels, ensuring meal presentation meets Sodexo and client expectations.
- Collaborate with Front of House (FOH) management to drive service excellence and elevate the overall dining experience.
- Train and develop your team, ensuring they are regularly refreshed on client and Sodexo standards.
What You Bring
- NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts or equivalent experience working in a high‑volume kitchen environment.
- Proficiency in IT, excellent communication skills, and experience with Microsoft Office packages.
- Extensive knowledge of food production methods, with a focus on consistency and quality.
- In‑depth understanding of allergens and the necessary precautions to ensure safe dining for all.
- Exceptional leadership abilities, with a focus on motivating and developing a team.
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards.
- Ability to manage your own performance and support colleagues to do the same.
- Ability to thrive under pressure, accept feedback, and continuously improve.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage a busy workload.
What We Offer
- On‑the‑job training with experienced professionals
- Fully funded apprenticeship qualifications
- Career development opportunities within Sodexo
- A friendly and supportive work environment
- Wellbeing support – unlimited online resources, a free health app with 24/7 virtual GP, and an Employee Assistance Programme.
- Financial benefits – discounts for you and your family, salary finance support, retirement plan, and a death‑in‑service benefit.
- Career growth – apprenticeships, learning tools, and development opportunities.
- Work perks – cycle to work scheme, volunteering opportunities, flexible work, full training, and a protective uniform.
Join us and be part of a company that values its employees and offers real career growth opportunities.
Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we are in receipt of a high number of applications.
Head Chef in Wallingford employer: Sodexo Ltd
Contact Detail:
Sodexo Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Wallingford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow chefs, culinary schools, or even local food events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Consider creating a portfolio of your best dishes or even a short video showcasing your cooking techniques. This can really set you apart from other candidates when you’re chatting with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culinary style. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in managing a team and ensuring high-quality meal production.
✨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 are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef in Wallingford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Culinary Skills: When writing your application, make sure to highlight your culinary expertise and experience in high-volume kitchens. We want to see how your skills can contribute to our team at Sodexo!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the Head Chef role. Mention your leadership abilities and how you’ve successfully managed kitchen teams in the past.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points for your achievements and responsibilities to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate straightforwardness!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sodexo Ltd
✨Know Your Culinary Stuff
Brush up on your culinary skills and knowledge before the interview. Be ready to discuss your experience with high-volume kitchens, menu planning, and food safety regulations. This will show that you’re not just a chef, but a leader who understands the intricacies of kitchen operations.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head Chef, you'll be managing a team, so highlight your leadership experience. Prepare examples of how you've motivated and developed your team in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to foster a positive work environment and maintain morale.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific kitchen scenarios, like managing inventory or dealing with dietary restrictions. Think through potential challenges and how you would address them, showcasing your problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
✨Align with Sodexo's Values
Research Sodexo’s mission and values, especially their commitment to quality and service excellence. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to enhancing the dining experience for armed forces personnel.