Head Chef

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.,
• 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.
  
  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.
  
  Part of Compass Group UK&I, ESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland. We support 250+ UK military establishments, high profile police, secure environments and government sites, along with a range of onshore and offshore facilities including platforms, drilling rigs, floatels and offices for the energy sector. We know that a friendly face makes all the difference, so we look for people who are passionate about delivering excellent customer service, at all levels, to join our teams.
  
  Competitive salary: £36,000 per hour.
• 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.
We ensure you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:
• 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 to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
• Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
• Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
• You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families