Head Chef

Aramark NV; Woking; On-site; GBP 31,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering company in Woking is seeking an experienced Head Chef to manage kitchen operations and inspire the culinary team. The position requires NVQ Level 1 & 2 in Culinary Skills and strong leadership abilities. You'll ensure food safety compliance and develop client relationships while leading innovation in menu creation. The role offers competitive salary, on-site parking, and opportunities for career development.

Benefits

Free on-site parking

Life assurance

Pension contributions

Generous holiday allowance

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in a similar environment (education or defence preferred).
• Ability to pass Enhanced DBS and full security clearance.
• Proactive and strong leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the kitchen team to deliver high-quality menus.
• Manage kitchen operations and budgets.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.
• Build strong client relationships.
• Train staff on new procedures.

Skills

Leadership skills

Culinary skills

Communication

Client relationship management

Education

NVQ Level 1 & 2 in Culinary Skills

Job description

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Salary: £30,192 per year (£15.43/hour)
Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours/week (5 days over 7, including alternate weekends)
Shifts: Early (06:00–14:00) & Late (12:00–20:00) – enjoy your evenings free!
Location: GU24 0QQ
Sector: Defence Catering

We’re on the lookout for a passionate and experienced Head Chef to lead our culinary team at JRDF, ATC Pirbright. If you’re ready to take charge of kitchen operations, drive innovation, and deliver exceptional food while maintaining cost efficiency, this could be your next big move.

At Aramark UK, we believe in making work-life balance achievable in hospitality. Join a global leader in contract catering and grow your culinary career with the best in the business.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Lead and inspire the kitchen team to deliver high-quality, innovative menus.
• Manage kitchen operations, budgets, and food production standards.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and operational excellence.
• Build strong client relationships and respond to customer feedback.
• Train staff on new procedures, equipment, and company policies.
• Drive continuous improvement and support team development.

What We're Looking For:

• NVQ Level 1 & 2 in Culinary Skills.
• Experience in a similar environment (education or defence preferred).
• A proactive, can-do attitude and strong leadership skills.
• UK residency for the past 3 years (due to security vetting requirements).
• Ability to pass Enhanced DBS and full security clearance.

What We Offer:

• Free on-site parking, uniform, and safety shoes.
• Access to our Employee Benefits App: Online GP, EAP, discounts & more.
• Life assurance, pension contributions, generous holiday allowance (with buy-more option).
• Career development opportunities – we love to promote from within!
• Apprenticeship schemes and ongoing training support.

About Aramark UK

We’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer, committed to diversity, inclusion, and supporting all employees to thrive. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact our team at [e-mail].

We’re also recognised as a Forces Friendly Employer, holding the prestigious ERS Gold Award in support of the Armed Forces community.

Ready to lead with flavour? Apply now and cook up a career that matters.