Head Chef

Sodexo France; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 40,000 - GBP 60,000; Full time

Job description

Grounded in Scotland, Ready for the World

Head Chef – Edinburgh Academy Junior School, 10 Arboretum Road, Edinburgh, EH3 5PL

Christmas & New Year Off – Every Year

The Edinburgh Academy is a modern, vibrant, co-educational school for 2–18 year olds. Located on two historic sites in the heart of Scotland’s capital, we provide the very best in 21st-century education. Our ethos, size, and genuine individual care make us sector‑leading in supporting the unique talents, needs, and ambitions of all.

Hospitality with a Work-Life Balance

At Sodexo and Edinburgh Academy, we believe you can have a rewarding career in hospitality without constant weekend shifts or late nights. Join a passionate team, deliver exceptional service, and still enjoy your evenings and weekends to recharge.

The Role:

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Head Chef to lead our catering operations at the Junior School. This is a fantastic opportunity for a dynamic leader with creativity, passion, and drive to deliver excellence in food and service.

Key Details

• Salary: £35,000 per annum
• Hours: 40 hrs per week
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00am–3:30pm (occasional weekend business as required)
• Enhanced PVG checks required
• Driving licence and own car essential

What You’ll Do:

• Deliver high-quality catering and hospitality, always exceeding client expectations.
• Lead menu planning, food production, and kitchen operations with creativity and precision.
• Uphold the Fresh Food from Scratch philosophy across all services.
• Maintain the highest standards of hygiene, safety, and compliance.
• Manage budgets effectively and ensure cost-efficient operations.
• Train, motivate, and support your team to achieve their best.
• Champion allergen management and ensure accurate, up-to-date information is always available.
• Organise and oversee special functions and hospitality events as required.

About You:

We’re looking for someone who combines culinary excellence with strong leadership skills.

You will bring:

• Professional catering experience ESSENTIAL, preferably in contract catering/large scale catering.
• Experience leading a busy, client-facing kitchen brigade.
• Strong budget management and computer literacy.
• NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent chef qualifications.
• Food Safety Level 2 or above.
• A proven ability to perform under pressure with excellent time management.
• A positive, enthusiastic, and self‑motivated approach.
• Flexibility, decisiveness, and the ability to inspire others.

(Additional training such as RIPHH & IOSH Certificates is desirable—or a willingness to complete within 4 months.)

What We Offer:

At Sodexo, this is more than just a job—it’s a career where you’ll be valued, supported, and empowered.

You can expect:

• Competitive salary and excellent benefits.
• Clear opportunities for growth and development.
• A diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace.
• The chance to make a real impact in an environment that values sustainability and service excellence.

Additional Perks:

• Unlimited access to online mental health and wellbeing support.
• Employee Assistance Programme (legal, financial, personal support).
• 24/7 access to a virtual GP service.
• Sodexo Discounts Scheme for you, family, and friends.
• Mercer Aspire Pension Plan.
• Learning & development opportunities.
• Bike to Work Scheme.

Ready to Join Us?

If you’re a passionate, experienced Head Chef who thrives on leadership, creativity, and delivering excellence, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today and take the next step in your Sodexo journey.

Please note: Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if a high volume of applications is received.