Job Introduction
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.
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37.5 hours per week
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Monday to Friday (every other weekend)
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Various Shift Patterns:0600-1400, 1130-1930 (weekdays) 1530-2330 (weekends)
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£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 you’ll do:
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Lead and support a talented kitchen team, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and a positive working environment.
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Oversee and coordinate chefs at all levels, providing clear direction and support to help the team perform at its best.
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Manage rotas and shift patterns to ensure fair scheduling, operational coverage, and a healthy work-life balance for the team.
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Maintain the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and compliance with Environmental Health (EHO) and health & safety regulations.
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Plan and deliver varied, high-quality menus in line with military dining requirements, making smart use of stock and reducing waste wherever possible.
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Monitor stock levels and ensure food presentation consistently meets both Sodexo and client expectations.
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Work closely with Front of House teams to ensure a seamless service and excellent overall dining experience.
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Support the training and development of your team, helping colleagues grow and maintain high standards across all areas.
What you bring:
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NVQ Level 2/3 in Culinary Arts (or equivalent experience in a high-volume kitchen environment).
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Strong knowledge of food production, with a focus on consistency, quality, and presentation.
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Good understanding of allergens and food safety requirements to ensure safe dining for all.
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Confident leadership skills with the ability to motivate, support, and develop a team.
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Strong communication and IT skills, including experience with Microsoft Office.
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Highly organised with the ability to prioritise tasks and manage a busy workload effectively.
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Able to perform well under pressure, take feedback on board, and continuously improve standards.
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Strong attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high-quality service at all times.
What we offer:
Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way. In addition, we offer:
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Mental health & wellbeing support
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Employee Assistance Programme for personal, legal, and financial advice
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24/7 virtual GP & lifestyle rewards
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Discounts for you & family
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Financial tools & retirement plan
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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
