At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead culinary operations and create exceptional food experiences for students and staff.
- Company: Join Sodexo, a company that values individuality and purpose-driven work.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, career growth, and mental health support.
- Other info: Enjoy a diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a vibrant school environment while showcasing your culinary creativity.
- Qualifications: Experienced chef with strong leadership and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Location: St Leonards School, 10 The Pends, St Andrews. KY16 9QJ
Days/Shift Pattern: 5 days out of 7 predominately Monday to Friday
Working Hours: 40hrs
Salary: £Competitive, with excellent benefits
Join Our Team as a Executive Head Chef – Make an Impact Every Day
We are looking for a talented and inspirational Executive Head Chef to lead the culinary operation at St Leonards School in St Andrews. This is a high-profile, hands-on role where you will act as the culinary figurehead on site, driving standards, creativity and excellence across core feeding, retail and hospitality. You will lead a team delivering food for approximately 500 students and staff, alongside occasional fine dining and summer events. This role requires a chef with a strong hospitality background, capable of balancing quality-led, restaurant-standard food with the demands of a busy school environment. Working closely with the client, you will be highly visible, building relationships and bringing innovation to the food offer while maintaining strong financial and operational control. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate “foodie” who thrives on developing teams, creating exceptional food experiences, and delivering consistent excellence.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Coordinate and direct all culinary activities in St Leonards and other locations in which we are asked to cater including supporting the team within the boarding houses.
- Manage and control the services to the agreed specification and to the agreed performance, qualitative and financial targets.
- Manage a team to increase the Client and Sodexo’s revenue opportunities i.e. commercial opportunities, labour efficiency and generate the GOP within retail operations.
- Supply Chain Management – ensure value for money is achieved through robust management of purchasing.
- Nurture client relationships in order to stabilise & develop them for long term partnerships.
- Recruit, induct and develop talented employees within the kitchens and, if necessary, firmly and fairly manage poor performance.
- Identify opportunities for organic growth and new business.
What You’ll Bring
Essential- NVQ level 2 Food Production certificate or equivalent.
- Intermediate Food Hygiene certificate.
- IOSH Managing Safely.
- Strong level of literacy and numeracy.
- Experienced Chef who has operated in a busy, client facing environment.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to be an effective team player.
- Flexible, with the ability to work under pressure and across a range of shifts and service times.
- Direct management experience of chefs / kitchen brigade.
- Clear, strong and effective leadership style.
- Strong ability to increase individuals’ effectiveness through leadership, motivation, communication, coaching and training.
- Excellent time management and organisational skills.
- Ability to set and maintain standards.
- Ability to review problems analytically, develop opportunities and implement innovative solutions / approaches.
- PC literate.
- Advanced Food Safety or Health and Safety qualification.
What We Offer
At Sodexo, this is more than just a job—it’s your chance to be part of something greater. We celebrate individuality, encourage purpose-driven work, and empower you to succeed on your own terms. Here’s what you can expect when you join us:
- A competitive salary & excellent benefits package.
- Opportunities for career growth and development.
- A diverse, supportive, and inclusive workplace.
Additional Perks & Benefits
- Unlimited access to an online mental health and wellbeing support platform.
- An Employee Assistance Programme for legal, financial, and personal support.
- 24/7 access to a virtual GP service.
- Exclusive discounts for you, your family, and friends through the Sodexo Discounts Scheme.
- Membership in the Mercer Aspire Pension Plan to help you save for your future.
- Learning and development opportunities to enhance your career growth.
- A Bike to Work Scheme, supporting both your fitness and the environment.
Ready to Be Part of Something Greater?
If you're looking for an opportunity where you can bring your passion, skills, and ambition to a company that truly values you, then this is it. Apply today and take the next step in your Sodexo journey.
Please note: Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we receive a high number of applications. Sodexo and our Clients are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Certain roles will require applicants to undergo screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (UK) and / or Disclosure Scotland (Scotland).
Executive Head Chef in Fife employer: Sodexo
At Sodexo, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that values individuality and purpose-driven work. As the Executive Head Chef at St Leonards School in St Andrews, you will enjoy a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and ample opportunities for career growth while leading a passionate team to create outstanding culinary experiences for students and staff alike. Join us to make a meaningful impact every day in a supportive environment that prioritises your well-being and professional development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Head Chef in Fife
✨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 Executive Head Chef in Fife
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!
