Sodexo | Head Chef

Package Description

• Competitive salary
• Working week: 5 out of 7 days
• Work one weekend in three
• All bank Holidays off
• All public holidays off
• Flexible working arrangements
• Staff workplace meals provided for
• No late finishes
• Exceptional Sodexo benefits
• Great discounts & Recognition
• Potential progression within Sodexo

Are you ready to take your culinary career to the next level in an inspiring and vibrant environment? Independents by Sodexo is offering an exciting opportunity for a passionate and experienced Head Chef to lead at Chetham\’s School of Music, a prestigious independent boarding school in Manchester.

In this rewarding role, you\’ll be at the heart of the schools\’ culinary operations, leading your team with creativity, leadership, and a commitment to excellence. We’re looking for someone who is not just an exceptional chef but also a true mentor who thrives on coaching and developing their team. As the driving force behind the kitchen, you\’ll collaborate with a variety of stakeholders, including students, parents, and staff, to deliver an outstanding dining experience that’s as innovative as it is delicious.

Sodexo and our clients are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults within a regulated activity. This role will require applicants to undergo screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and/ or Disclosure Scotland.

What you’ll do:

• Coordinate and direct all core culinary activities in all catering locations.
• Manage and control the services to the agreed specification and to the agreed performance, qualitative and financial targets and ensure that quality is maintained throughout service.
• 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 kitchen and, if necessary, firmly and fairly manage poor performance.
• Identify opportunities for organic growth and new business.
• Exceptional management of Food Hygiene, Health, Safety and Environmental Legislation using the Sodexo Safety Management System to include Allergens.
• Responsible for driving Continuous Improvement and innovation to realise the expectations of the school and catering management

What you bring:

• NVQ level 2 Food Production certificate or equivalent
• Intermediate Food Hygiene certificate
• 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

What we offer:

Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way. In addition, we offer:

• Mental Health Support: Unlimited access to an online platform for mental health and wellbeing.
• Employee Assistance: Access to support for everyday challenges, including legal and financial advice.
• Health & Wellbeing App: Enjoy a free app with rewards for healthy living, plus 24/7 virtual GP access.
• Discounts & Financial Benefits: Exclusive deals through the Sodexo Discounts Scheme, alongside insights and savings via the Salary Finance Platform.
• Retirement Planning: Join the Sodexo Retirement Plan to secure your future.
• Death in Service Benefit: Protection for your loved ones in the event of your passing while employed.
• Career Development: Opportunities for growth through a variety of learning and development tools.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Promote a healthier lifestyle while helping the environment.
• Volunteering Opportunities: Engage in meaningful community support initiatives.
• Flexible Work Environment: Enjoy a dynamic workplace with competitive compensation.

We’re a Disability Confident Leader employer. We’re 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.