Head Chef reference: 150762

Opportunity Overview: Head Chef at Sodexo, RAF Halton

Are you a seasoned culinary professional seeking a rewarding role where your leadership and expertise can directly impact the well-being and operational success of our armed forces? Sodexo is offering a compelling opportunity for a Head Chef at their RAF Halton location. This position offers a chance to lead a dedicated culinary team and contribute significantly to a vital client base.

This role is more than just managing a kitchen; it's about fostering a positive and efficient environment, ensuring the highest standards of food quality and safety, and playing a crucial role in the daily lives of service personnel. If you are passionate about culinary excellence, possess strong leadership acumen, and are looking for a stable and supportive work environment with significant career development potential, this could be the perfect next step in your career journey.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Leadership and Impact: As Head Chef, you will be at the forefront of culinary operations, directly managing a team and shaping the dining experience for military personnel. Your leadership will be instrumental in maintaining morale and supporting operational readiness.
• Professional Development: Sodexo is committed to employee growth. This role offers on-the-job training with experienced professionals, access to fully funded apprenticeship qualifications, and clear career development opportunities within a global organization.
• Supportive Work Environment: You'll join a friendly and supportive work environment, backed by comprehensive Wellbeing Support including online resources, a 24/7 virtual GP, and an Employee Assistance Programme.
• Financial and Lifestyle Perks: Beyond the competitive hourly rate of £15.92, Sodexo offers a range of benefits including:
  • 10% discount at the on-site Costcutter shop.
  • Free car parking.
  • Reduced cost of on-site gym membership.
  • Subsidised food available on-site.
  • Discounts at Sodexo partner brands.
  • Discounts for you and your family.
  • Retirement plan and a death-in-service benefit.
  • Cycle to Work Scheme.
• Variety and Engagement: The role involves menu planning, stock management, and collaborating with Front of House teams, offering a dynamic and engaging work experience.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Work Schedule and Shifts: The position requires working 5 out of 7 days per week, with the flexibility of an early shift (05:00-13:30) or a late shift (10:00-19:30). Candidates should assess their ability to work within these timeframes.
• Security Requirements: Due to the nature of the location, a strict requirement is that candidates must have been continuously resident in the UK for the last 3 years. This is a non-negotiable aspect of the application process.
• Culinary and Operational Demands: This is a high-volume kitchen environment. Candidates must possess NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts or equivalent experience, along with proven skills in food production methods, allergen management, and inventory control.
• Leadership and Team Management: The ability to lead, motivate, and develop a team is paramount. Experience in delegating tasks, scheduling shifts, and fostering a positive team dynamic is essential.
• Health and Safety Compliance: A strong understanding and commitment to adhering to Environmental Health and Safety (EHO) guidelines and sanitation practices is critical for ensuring a safe dining environment.
• Adaptability and Problem-Solving: The role requires the ability to thrive under pressure, make adjustments to menus based on stock, and continuously improve processes.

This Head Chef position at Sodexo, RAF Halton, presents a significant opportunity for a skilled culinary leader. It offers a stable career path with excellent support, development, and a chance to make a meaningful contribution. By carefully considering the work schedule, security requirements, and the demands of a high-volume culinary leadership role, you can determine if this position aligns perfectly with your career aspirations.