
Head Chef
- High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire
- Permanent
- Full-time
- 5 out of 7 per week. Shift patterns are between the hours of 06:00 - 19:00 - The shifts are Early - late - middle - plus weekends. The rota is written by the Head Chef being recruited for this role
- £16.07 per hour
- Free Car parking
- 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.
- NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts 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.
- 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.
Frequency Hourly
Job Reference SDX/TP/1964195/147281
Contract Type Permanent - Full Time
Closing Date 16 September, 2025
Job Category Chefs
Business Unit UK Government - Frontline
Location High Wycombe, United Kingdom
No. of positions 1
Posted on 02 September, 2025