Aramark UK is looking for an exceptional Head Chef to lead the Officers’ Mess at Northwood Headquarters (HA6 3HP) — a prestigious, high profile environment delivering hotel style hospitality at its finest.
This is a standout opportunity for an experienced culinary leader who thrives on quality, creativity, and events. You’ll take the reins of a talented kitchen team of around 10 chefs and kitchen staff, reporting directly to the Catering General Manager and setting the standard for excellence across daily dining and high-profile functions.
Why this role stands out:
Would you love to showcase your culinary expertise by delivering:
-
Large-scale themed Summer and Christmas Balls for 500+ guests
-
Fine dining VIP events and special occasions
-
Exceptional daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner services
This role genuinely allows for creativity and flair, with the freedom to innovate menus while operating within a well-supported contract framework.
Even better, peak service hours run Monday to Friday, breakfast, and lunch, making this a rare hospitality role that truly supports work–life balance — with evenings free and event dates communicated well in advance.
The role:
As Head Chef, you’ll have full ownership of the kitchen operation, driving:
-
Culinary excellence and innovation
-
Budget and cost control
-
Menu development that enhances both quality and sales
-
A positive, high-performing kitchen culture
-
You’ll empower and inspire your team to deliver outstanding service while maintaining the highest operational and compliance standards.
What we offer:
-
Full-time, 40 hours per week, mainly Monday–Friday, 06:00–16:00
-
Annual salary: £41,158
-
Free on-site parking
-
Access to our Employee Benefits App, including online GP access and hundreds of lifestyle discounts
-
A comprehensive benefits package including life assurance, pension contributions, and generous holiday allowance (with the option to buy more)
-
Outstanding training, development, and apprenticeship opportunities
-
Strong career progression — we are proud to promote from within
At Aramark UK, we are redefining what a career in hospitality can look like, offering balance without compromising ambition.
A day in the life:
You’ll be responsible for:
-
Leading, training and developing culinary and kitchen teams to deliver consistent, high-quality food
-
Coaching staff in new techniques, procedures, equipment, and company standards
-
Maintaining training records, performance data, and operational documentation
-
Driving innovation in the most financially efficient way possible
-
Building excellent relationships with clients and stakeholders
-
Championing customer service excellence and resolving service issues proactively
-
Ensuring full compliance with Operational Excellence standards, food safety, procurement, and supply chain processes.
