At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate kitchen team and create delicious meals that make a difference.
- Company: Join Nuffield Health, a supportive and inclusive workplace focused on wellbeing.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, flexible hours, and discounts on high street brands.
- Other info: Opportunities for training, development, and a positive team culture await you.
- Why this job: Make an impact while honing your culinary skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Culinary qualifications and a passion for cooking are essential.
The predicted salary is between 15 - 15 £ per hour.
Location: Nuffield Health: The Vale Hospital, Ty Hensol, Hensol Castle Park, Pontyclun
Pay: £15.00 per hour
Hours: 37.5 per week, worked across 5 days in 7
Weekend pattern: You'll only be scheduled for 1 weekend in every 3, ensuring plenty of regular weekends free
Overtime: Extra overtime shifts are available for those who want them
Benefits: Free parking, free meal on shift, sociable hours
About the Role
As Head Chef, you'll bring passion, creativity, and leadership to a kitchen that makes a real difference to patients every day. You'll oversee food preparation, maintain high standards, and help shape a positive, supportive team culture.
What You'll Do
- Lead the on site catering team
- Prepare and cook meals to recipe and quality standards
- Contribute to menu planning and recipe development
- Support, guide, and train junior chefs and kitchen staff
- Ensure full compliance with health & safety, hygiene, COSHH, and fire safety regulations
- Maintain a clean, organised, and efficient kitchen environment
What You Bring
- City & Guilds 706/1 and 706/2 (or equivalent)
- Level 3 Food Safety
- Strong culinary skills and a genuine passion for cooking
- Ability to perform well under pressure
- Clear communication and a collaborative approach
What we offer
- Mental health and wellbeing resources
- Employee Assistance Programme (including financial/legal advice & personal support)
- Free health & wellbeing app with 24/7 virtual GP access
- Discounts on high street brands for you and your family
- Salary finance tools and financial wellbeing resources
- Retirement savings plan and life insurance
- Full training and protective uniform provided
- Opportunities to gain experience through learning and development
- Cycle to Work scheme & volunteering opportunities
- Flexible working and a dynamic team environment
- Competitive pay
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are committed to being an inclusive employer. We welcome and encourage applications from people with a diverse variety of experiences, backgrounds, and identities. We are a Disability Confident Leader employer, committed to changing attitudes towards disability and making sure disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations. We run a Disability Confident interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria for the job.
Head Chef in Cardiff employer: Sodexo
Nuffield Health: The Vale Hospital is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment for the Head Chef role. With a focus on employee wellbeing, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional growth, you will enjoy sociable hours and a strong team culture while making a meaningful impact on patients' lives. The hospital's commitment to inclusivity and mental health resources further enhances its appeal as a workplace where you can thrive both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Cardiff
✨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 Sodexo. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Sodexo
Don't be shy about reaching out to Sodexo 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 Head Chef in Cardiff
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 Sodexo 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 Sodexo
✨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!
