Head Chef

OCS Group; Leeds; On-site; GBP 30,000 - GBP 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A facilities management company in the UK is seeking a skilled catering professional to oversee kitchen operations. Responsibilities include managing kitchen staff, ensuring high food quality, and maintaining inventory. Candidates must possess a Level 3 in Catering and Hospitality and have extensive experience in contract catering. This role requires strong leadership, customer service skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. Applications from all individuals are encouraged, and professional development opportunities are offered.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in food production and service management in contract catering.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor a team of chefs.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Create and update menus based on seasonal ingredients.
• Oversee kitchen staff, providing training and resolving conflicts.
• Manage inventory to ensure availability of fresh ingredients.
• Ensure high culinary standards and compliance with company policies.
• Maintain a clean and safe kitchen environment.

Skills

Team management

Leadership

Customer service

Time management

Financial management

Education

Level 3 in Catering and Hospitality or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

About The Company

OCS UK & Ireland is a leading facilities management company with 50,000+ colleagues and a turnover in excess of £2bn. We deliver innovative, award-winning services within facilities management, hard services, cleaning, security and catering.

Our mission is to make people and places the best they can be for our colleagues, customers and the communities we serve. Our commitment to doing business the right way is rooted in our TRUE values - Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment.

About The Role

Shift Pattern: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 15:00

As part of your role, your key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Creating and updating menus in accordance with seasonal and local ingredients, as well as being in line with clients’ requirements
• Being responsible to oversee the kitchen staff, providing guidance, comprehensive training, and resolving any interpersonal conflicts that might arise
• Managing the inventory by ensuring that the kitchen remains adequately stocked with fresh ingredients and culinary necessities. Changing dishes if certain ingredients are not available
• Overseeing the preparation and presentation of all dishes, ensuring high culinary standards and quality control, and ensuring legal and company policies and procedures are met. Food costs must also be adhered to, to ensure budgets are maintained
• Maintaining a safe and clean kitchen environment, keeping the kitchen tidy and hygienic in accordance with company and legal requirements

What are we looking for?

• Proven and extensive experience in the production of food and service within contract catering as well as teams’ management
• Possess a Level 3 in Catering and Hospitality or equivalent, as well as Team Management experience within the Contract Catering sector
• Proven leadership skills, with the ability to lead, mentor, and motivate a team of chefs
• Experienced in building relationships with clients and staff, ensuring that the client’s expectations are met every day
• Can work in a fast‑paced environment and adapt to changing demands is crucial

The ideal candidate should meet the following criteria

• Must have the Right to Work in the UK
• Be able to demonstrate the ability to lead and manage teams effectively
• Understand financial management, budgeting, and cost control
• Excellent customer service skills are essential
• Can handle varied situations and find practical solutions
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills
• Have good time‑management and organisational abilities
• Competent with Microsoft Office tools, especially Excel

How to Apply

If you are interested in joining a business that encourages professional development, career progression and the chance to work with inspirational people then please click apply and register your interest! You can also sign up to our job alerts when registering which will notify you when other suitable vacancies are available.

We are an equal opportunities employer and rely on a diverse workforce with a broad range of knowledge, skills, and backgrounds to deliver our goals. We offer an inclusive and welcoming environment and actively encourage applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or age.