Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a culinary team, manage food production, and ensure high-quality meals for armed forces personnel.
- Company: Join Sodexo, a company dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for its clients and employees.
- Benefits: Enjoy on-the-job training, career development, wellbeing support, and financial perks like discounts and retirement plans.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive environment that values your growth and offers real career advancement opportunities.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts or equivalent experience in a high-volume kitchen is required.
- Other info: Flexible shifts and a friendly workplace culture await you at our Aldershot location.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 46000 £ per year.
- 40 hours per week
- 5 days out of 7 per week
- Early 6.00 – 14.30 Middles 10 – 18.30 Lates 12.30 – 21.00
- £15.85 per hour
- Free Car parking
Check your local transport links here: Plan Your Journey | Traveline – the destination you should input is Aldershot, GU11 2LF
Job Description:
Position: Head Chef at Sodexo, Mons Barracks, Princes Avenue, Aldershot, Hampshire, GU11 2LF
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, Professional Cookery (7100) 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.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Head Chef employer: Sodexo
Contact Detail:
Sodexo Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Sodexo's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to quality and service will help you align your experience and leadership style with what they are looking for in a Head Chef.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Sodexo, especially those in culinary roles. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've led a kitchen team in high-pressure situations. Highlighting your ability to maintain quality and morale under stress will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research military dining standards and practices, as this role involves serving armed forces personnel. Showing that you understand their unique needs and preferences can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in culinary arts and leadership roles. Emphasise your qualifications, such as NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts, and any experience in high-volume kitchen environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for cooking and leadership. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed a kitchen team and adhered to health and safety regulations.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on skills that are crucial for the Head Chef role, such as menu planning, inventory management, and team training. Make sure to mention your proficiency in IT and communication skills.
Showcase Your Leadership Experience: Provide examples of how you've motivated and developed a culinary team in previous roles. Highlight your ability to thrive under pressure and manage a busy workload effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sodexo
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head Chef, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed a kitchen team in the past. Highlight any specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Demonstrate Your Culinary Expertise
Make sure to talk about your experience with menu planning and food production methods. Be ready to discuss how you ensure quality and consistency in your dishes, as well as how you handle dietary restrictions and allergens.
✨Emphasise Your Organisational Skills
The role requires strong organisational abilities. Prepare to explain how you prioritise tasks in a busy kitchen environment and manage inventory effectively. Share any systems or processes you use to keep everything running smoothly.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills under pressure. Think about past experiences where you had to adapt quickly, such as adjusting menus or managing staff during peak times, and be ready to share those stories.
