Site Head Chef

We're looking for an experienced Site Head Chef to lead the catering operation at Bassingbourn Barracks, overseeing multiple kitchen facilities and delivering high-quality food services to a military population of up to 500 personnel.
This is an excellent opportunity for a strong culinary leader who thrives in a structured environment and enjoys managing teams, developing junior chefs, and maintaining exceptional standards across a large catering operation. Working alongside Apprentice Chefs and kitchen teams, you'll be responsible for ensuring consistent food quality, compliance, and operational excellence across five kitchens on site.
Key ResponsibilitiesLead and oversee the day-to-day operation of five kitchens across the site
Ensure all meals are prepared and served in line with agreed menus, dietary requirements, and service standards
Manage, coach, and develop kitchen teams, including Apprentice Chefs
Create a positive, organised, and high-performing kitchen culture
Monitor food quality, presentation, and consistency across all service areas
Manage stock ordering, inventory control, and food wastage effectively
Ensure all kitchens remain compliant with Food Safety, Health & Safety, and company procedures
Maintain audit-ready standards and ensure all cleaning schedules are completed
Manage kitchen budgets and support financial performance through effective cost controls
Support and deliver catering for site functions and events, with overtime available for additional function work
Act as the senior culinary lead on site and build strong relationships with key stakeholders

What We're Looking ForCity & Guilds 706/1 & 706/2, NVQ Level 3 Professional Cookery, or equivalent qualification
Proven experience as a Head Chef, Executive Chef, or Senior Chef within contract catering, defence, education, healthcare, or high-volume hospitality
Experience managing multiple teams or large-scale catering operations
Strong leadership skills with a passion for coaching and developing others
Experience managing stock, budgets, food costs, and kitchen compliance
Ability to remain organised and calm in a fast-paced environment
Excellent understanding of food safety legislation and HACCP procedures
Strong communication and people-management skills
A hands-on approach with a commitment to delivering quality food and service

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.
Job Reference: com/#####/96047001/52685958/SU #Defence
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!

Why Apply?£36,000 per annum for a 40-hour contract
Overtime opportunities available through site functions and events
Lead a large and varied catering operation serving up to 500 clients daily
Opportunity to mentor and develop Apprentice Chefs
Stable and secure contract catering environment
Career development opportunities within a leading food service provider
A leadership role with real impact on both team development and service delivery

This is an ideal opportunity for a passionate and experienced chef looking to take ownership of a significant on-site catering operation while developing the next generation of culinary talent.
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