Head Chef

Compass Group; Brecon; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent food services provider in Brecon is seeking a Head Chef. Lead a kitchen team to deliver fresh, high-quality meals for military personnel and staff. Manage all kitchen operations while ensuring compliance with food safety standards. The ideal candidate has experience in a similar role, strong leadership skills, and the ability to thrive under pressure. This full-time position offers £16.25 per hour, a structured working week, and various benefits including free meals and career progression.

Benefits

Free meal on duty

Free on-site parking

Subsidised gym membership

Career progression opportunities

Contributory pension scheme

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a Head Chef or similar role.
• Confidence managing a large, diverse team in a fast-paced environment.
• Flexibility to work a mixture of early and late shifts, including weekends.

Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate, and develop a team of 14 to deliver excellent food and service.
• Plan, prepare, and present fresh, nutritious meals for daily and special events.
• Manage ordering, stock control, and food waste reduction.
• Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, health, and safety standards.
• Inspire a culture of teamwork, pride, and culinary creativity.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team Management

Culinary Creativity

Organizational Skills

Education

Relevant catering qualifications (e.g. NVQ, City & Guilds)

Job description

Location

Brecon Camp, Wales

Hours

40 hours per week (5 over 7 – mix of earlies and lates)

Pay

£16.25 per hour

Contract Type

Full-time, Permanent

Shift Patterns

• Early: 05:30 – 14:00
• Late: 10:30 – 19:00 (Includes a 30‑minute unpaid break)

About the Role

As Head Chef with ESS at Brecon Camp, you’ll lead a talented kitchen team delivering fresh, high‑quality meals to military personnel and staff. You’ll oversee all aspects of kitchen operations— from daily service to event catering— ensuring every plate meets our high standards.

You’ll manage a team of 14, including 7 direct reports, and play a key role in creating a positive, professional kitchen environment.

Meal Service Times

Monday to Friday

• Breakfast: 06:00 – 07:00
• Lunch: 12:15 – 13:30
• Evening Meal: 17:00 – 18:30

Weekends

• Breakfast: 07:00 – 08:00
• Lunch: 12:15 – 13:00
• Evening Meal: 16:45 – 17:30

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate, and develop a team of 14 to deliver excellent food and service
• Plan, prepare, and present fresh, nutritious meals for daily and special events
• Manage ordering, stock control, and food waste reduction
• Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, health, and safety standards
• Support smooth day‑to‑day operations and effective scheduling
• Inspire a culture of teamwork, pride, and culinary creativity

About You

You’re an experienced, hands‑on Head Chef who thrives under pressure and leads by example.

Essential qualifications:

• Previous experience in a Head Chef or similar role
• Relevant catering qualifications (e.g. NVQ, City & Guilds – desirable)
• Confidence managing a large, diverse team in a fast‑paced environment
• Strong leadership, organisation, and communication skills
• Passion for delivering high‑quality, seasonal food
• Flexibility to work a mixture of early and late shifts, including weekends

What We Offer

• £16.25 per hour
• 40‑hour working week (5 over 7)
• Uniform provided
• Free meal on duty
• Free on‑site parking
• Subsidised gym membership
• Located on a bus route – easy to reach
• Career progression within ESS and Compass Group

Additional benefits include:

• Contributory pension scheme
• Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
• Digital GP and wider healthcare benefits
• Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more
• Discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and more for food shopping
• Up to 44% off cinema tickets
• Cash rewards for spending
• Free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
• Share discounts and offers with family and friends

Please note: This role is contracted to weeks per year

About Us

Part of Compass Group UK&I, ESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland. We support 250+ UK military establishments, high‑profile police, secure environments and government sites, along with a range of onshore and offshore facilities including platforms, drilling rigs, floatels and offices for the energy sector. We look for people who are passionate about delivering excellent customer service at all levels.

Diversity and Inclusion

Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members.

Job Reference: com/1601/94391001/52202093/R/SU