Head Chef

About the role Please note, due to security requirements, applicants must have been continuously resident in the UK for the past 3 years to be eligible for this position.

You can get further details about the nature of this opening, and what is expected from applicants, by reading the below.
37.5 hours per week
Monday to Friday (every other weekend)
Various Shift Patterns: 0600-1400, 1130-1930 (weekdays) 1530-2330 (weekends)
£18.17 per hour
Check your local transport links here: Plan Your Journey | Traveline - the destination you should input is OX10 6AA
We are looking to recruit a Head Chef to join Sodexo, based at RAF Benson in Wallingford .
As Head Chef, you will play a key role in leading culinary operations and managing the production of high-quality food and beverages for our Armed Forces personnel. Your expertise will ensure consistently excellent meals are delivered, supporting both operational effectiveness and team morale on site.
This is a fantastic opportunity to take ownership of a busy kitchen environment, lead a dedicated team, and make a real impact within a unique and rewarding setting.
What youll do Lead and support a talented kitchen team, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and a positive working environment.
Oversee and coordinate chefs at all levels, providing clear direction and support to help the team perform at its best.
Manage rotas and shift patterns to ensure fair scheduling, operational coverage, and a healthy work-life balance for the team.
Maintain the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and compliance with Environmental Health (EHO) and health & safety regulations.
Plan and deliver varied, high-quality menus in line with military dining requirements, making smart use of stock and reducing waste wherever possible.
Monitor stock levels and ensure food presentation consistently meets both Sodexo and client expectations.
Work closely with Front of House teams to ensure a seamless service and excellent overall dining experience.
Support the training and development of your team, helping colleagues grow and maintain high standards across all areas.
What you bring NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts (or equivalent experience in a high-volume kitchen environment).
Strong knowledge of food production, with a focus on consistency, quality, and presentation.
Good understanding of allergens and food safety requirements to ensure safe dining for all.
Confident leadership skills with the ability to motivate, support, and develop a team.
Strong communication and IT skills, including experience with Microsoft Office.
Highly organised with the ability to prioritise tasks and manage a busy workload effectively.
Able to perform well under pressure, take feedback on board, and continuously improve standards.
Strong attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high-quality service at all times. xwzovoh
What we offer Working with Sodexo is more than a job; its a chance to be part of something greater. Youll belong in a company and team that values you for you; youll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and youll be able to thrive in your own way. In addition, we offer:
Mental health & wellbeing support
Employee Assistance Programme for personal, legal, and financial advice
24/7 virtual GP & lifestyle rewards
Discounts for you & family
Financial tools & retirement plan
Cycle to Work & Paid Volunteering Day
Join Sodexo as a Head Chef and lead a talented kitchen team to deliver high-quality, great-tasting meals that make a real difference every day!
Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we are in receipt of a high number of applications