Head Chef - Lead Kitchen, Menu Innovation & Team Growth

Aramark NV; Hatfield; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A food services company in Hatfield is seeking a motivated Head Chef to lead the culinary team at the University of Hertfordshire. You will oversee food service operations, ensuring quality and safety while managing a busy kitchen. The ideal candidate should possess strong leadership skills, creativity in menu design, and a comprehensive understanding of kitchen management. A full-time and permanent position offering great benefits including generous leave and employee support.

Benefits

Generous annual leave

Defined contribution pension scheme

Life assurance

Access to discounts and health support

Opportunities to attend culinary events

Qualifications

• Experience operating as a Head Chef responsible for food production and labour management.
• An innovative approach to menu design with strong attention to detail.
• Previous experience in managing a catering team.

Responsibilities

• Engage, mentor, and lead culinary professionals.
• Create innovative culinary solutions while maintaining financial efficiency.
• Ensure consistent food quality by training teams.
• Promote safety awareness in kitchen operations.
• Build strong relationships with clients and share culinary trends.
• Respond to customer feedback to improve service quality.
• Manage catering finances, sales, and gross profit.

Skills

Experience managing a large kitchen brigade

Innovative approach to menu design

Strong interpersonal skills

Commercial acumen

Organizational and problem-solving abilities

Job description

A food services company in Hatfield is seeking a motivated Head Chef to lead the culinary team at the University of Hertfordshire. You will oversee food service operations, ensuring quality and safety while managing a busy kitchen. The ideal candidate should possess strong leadership skills, creativity in menu design, and a comprehensive understanding of kitchen management. A full-time and permanent position offering great benefits including generous leave and employee support.