Head Chef

Are you an experienced Head Chef with a passion for delivering high-quality food and leading a dynamic kitchen team? If so, we want to hear from you!

At ESS, we pride ourselves on providing outstanding catering services. As Head Chef, you will be responsible for overseeing kitchen operations, ensuring the efficient and effective management of the catering unit, and delivering exceptional meals to our clients. You will also step up as Camp Boss when required, providing a fantastic opportunity to expand your leadership experience.

What You’ll Be Doing:

✔️ Leading the kitchen team, ensuring high standards of food quality and service
✔️ Managing stock, labour, and resources efficiently to maximise cost-effectiveness
✔️ Overseeing menu planning, ensuring variety, innovation, and compliance with dietary needs
✔️ Maintaining and promoting Health & Safety and Food Safety standards
✔️ Conducting regular team meetings and ensuring staff are well-trained and motivated
✔️ Ordering and managing stock to minimise waste and control costs
✔️ Ensuring food presentation, portion sizes, and allergen information are correctly managed
✔️ Handling administrative duties including staff scheduling and compliance paperwork
✔️ Mentoring and training apprentice chefs and junior team members

What We’re Looking For:

✅ Proven experience as a Head Chef in a high-volume catering environment
✅ Strong leadership and team management skills
✅ NVQ Level 3 or City & Guilds 706/1,2,3 (or equivalent)
✅ Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate
✅ IT literacy and knowledge of stock management systems
✅ Passion for food and a commitment to delivering high-quality meals
✅ Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure
✅ A proactive, can-do attitude with a keen eye for detail

What We Offer:

Competitive salary and benefits
Work-life balance with structured shifts
A supportive and professional working environment
Career progression opportunities within ESS and Compass Group
Uniform and PPE provided
Ongoing training and development opportunities