Chef Supervisor

Sodexo France; Colchester; On-site; GBP 30,000 - GBP 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering service provider is looking for a Floating Chef Supervisor in Colchester to oversee catering operations at Merville Barracks. In this dynamic role, you will supervise teams, ensure food safety compliance, and maintain high service standards. Ideal candidates possess relevant catering qualifications and strong communication skills. Join a supportive environment that offers on-the-job training, financial benefits, and opportunities for career development in the hospitality sector.

Benefits

On-the-job training

Career development opportunities

Wellbeing support

Financial benefits and discounts

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a catering operational role.
• Strong communication skills—both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.

Responsibilities

• Oversee shifts and support catering leads to meet service standards.
• Motivate and supervise chefs, drive training and development.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and health standards.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Detail-oriented

Team collaboration

Food safety knowledge

MS Office proficiency

Education

BSC (Catering)

MHCIM

HND

NVQ Level 2 or 3

Intermediate level food safety certification

Job description

Overview

Are you an experienced catering professional ready to step up and make a real impact? Sodexo is seeking a Floating Chef Supervisor to join our dynamic team at Merville Barracks, Colchester, CO2 7UT, providing high-quality catering support across multiple onsite locations. This is a fantastic opportunity to take on a varied, fast-paced role where no two days are the same – perfect for someone who thrives on responsibility, teamwork, and delivering exceptional service.

What you’ll do

• Overseeing shifts and supporting ICRL catering leads to ensure services meet required standards
• Motivating and supervising chefs, helping drive training and development across the team
• Deputising for Head Chefs during short or long-term absences
• Championing Sodexo’s values and Collaborative Business Relationship principles (BS11000)
• Maintaining strong client and customer relationships and representing Sodexo professionally at all times
• Ensuring compliance with food safety, health & safety and Sodexo’s SMS standards
• Managing recipe systems, menu planning and food consumption to support quality and cost-efficiency
• Overseeing correct food cooking, storage, temperature monitoring and waste prevention
• Ensuring high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, safety and resource care
• Supporting catering operations across the site including food preparation, cooking and presentation
• Handling any performance or service concerns in a timely, proactive manner
• Carrying out any reasonable tasks directed by management

What you bring

• Previous experience in a catering operational role
• Strong communication skills—both written and verbal
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to high standards
• Solid understanding of Health & Safety and Food Safety requirements
• Confident IT user—competent with MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Relevant catering qualifications such as:
  • BSC (Catering)
  • MHCIM
  • HND
  • City & Guilds 706/1 and 2
  • NVQ Level 2 or 3
  • Intermediate level food safety certification

Desirable

• Experience working within a military environment

What we offer

• On-the-job training with experienced professionals
• Fully funded apprenticeship qualifications
• Career development opportunities within Sodexo
• A friendly and supportive work environment
• Wellbeing Support – Unlimited online resources, a free health app with 24/7 virtual GP, and an Employee Assistance Programme
• Financial Benefits – Discounts for you and your family, salary finance support, retirement plan, and a death-in-service benefit
• Career Growth – Apprenticeships, learning tools, and development opportunities
• Work Perks – Cycle to Work Scheme, volunteering opportunities, flexible work, full training, and a protective uniform

At Sodexo, we pride ourselves on creating a positive and inclusive environment. Join us in helping improve the quality of life for our armed forces personnel while gaining valuable experience in a dynamic hospitality setting.

Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we are in receipt of a high number of applications.