About The Role
ESS is seeking a Head Chef to lead operations across two kitchens at Beachley Barracks. You will be responsible for delivering high-quality meals for around 30 personnel daily, with numbers increasing during seasonal functions and special events.
As Head Chef, you will lead a small team of 3 staff, managing rotas, shift patterns, and daily kitchen operations to ensure smooth service and consistent delivery of nutritious, well-presented meals.
Meal Service Times
- Breakfast: 07:00 – 07:45
- Lunch: 12:30 – 13:15
- Evening Meal: 19:00 – 19:45
Shift Patterns
- Early Shift: 06:00 – 14:00
- Late Shift: 12:30 – 20:00 – You will work a mixture of early and late shifts throughout the week, Monday to Sunday (5 days out of 7), with flexibility to support seasonal functions and special events.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, motivate, and develop a team of 3 kitchen staff, ensuring high standards of professionalism and teamwork.
- Oversee daily kitchen operations across two kitchens, including meal preparation, service, and presentation.
- Plan and manage staff rotas to meet service demands.
- Prepare, cook, and present a variety of dishes to consistently high standards.
- Deliver catering for seasonal events and special functions.
- Manage ordering, stock control, and minimise food waste.
- Ensure full compliance with all food hygiene, health, and safety standards.
About You
You are an experienced culinary professional with proven experience in a Head Chef or similar senior role. You thrive in a dynamic, small-team environment and have the ability to manage multiple kitchens effectively.
You Will
- Have previous experience in a similar role (essential).
- Hold relevant catering qualifications (desirable).
- Demonstrate excellent leadership, organisational, and communication skills.
- Be flexible and adaptable to meet operational needs.
- Be passionate about delivering high-quality, seasonal meals.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary: £36,000 per year.
- Rotating shifts with early/late patterns for flexibility.
- Opportunities for additional hours during seasonal events.
- Supportive, team-focused work environment.
- A professional role within a respected defence catering operation.
Benefits
- Contributory pension scheme
- Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
- Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
- Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more
- Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and many more
- Up to 44% off cinema tickets
- Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
- Unwind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
- You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families
Please note: This role is contracted to weeks per year.
Job Reference
com/2005/94373001/52775565/R/SU #Defence
EEO Statement
Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive – because diversity is our strength!
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