Sous Chef

Sodexo France; Abingdon; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering service provider is looking for a Sous Chef at Abingdon School in the UK. In this role, you will oversee kitchen operations, ensuring high standards of culinary excellence while fostering a collaborative team environment. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional culinary skills, leadership abilities, and a professional approach. This position offers a competitive hourly rate between £18 and £22 based on experience, along with various Sodexo employee benefits including performance rewards and complimentary meals.

Benefits

Competitive retirement plan

Discounts at 1,900+ retail brands

Complimentary meals while on duty

Free on-site parking

Qualifications

• NVQ or equivalent qualification in catering with experience in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience in educational or contract catering is advantageous.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate kitchen teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day kitchen operations with a focus on hygiene and safety.
• Collaborate on menu planning and food production.
• Prepare and present dishes that meet excellence standards.

Skills

Exceptional culinary skills

Leadership abilities

Excellent communication

Strong time-management skills

Financial awareness

Education

NVQ or equivalent professional catering qualification

Food Hygiene Certificate

Tools

Kitchen management tools

Job description

Join Our Team as Sous Chef at Abingdon School

• Location: Abingdon School, Park Road, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 1DE
• Salary: £18 - £22 per hour, depending on experience. Equated pay.
• Hours: Work any 5 days out of 7, typically between 7:00am and 7:00pm, with flexibility to support occasional duties outside these hours. Term time only.
• Benefits: Enjoy Sodexo employee benefits, performance-based rewards, complimentary meals while on duty, and free on-site parking

Check your local transport links here: Plan Your Journey | Traveline

Job Introduction:

Are you ready to elevate your culinary career in a dynamic, inspiring environment? At Abingdon School, one of the UK’s most prestigious independent schools, you’ll find more than just a kitchen, you’ll find a community where your talent, creativity, and passion for food can truly shine.

As a Sous Chef, you will be a key part of a dedicated catering team, helping to deliver fresh, imaginative dishes that fuel both learning and community life. Working with Sodexo, you’ll uphold the highest standards of service and presentation, contributing to a dining experience that reflects the school’s reputation for excellence. Here, every plate you prepare makes a real difference to students, staff, visitors, and the wider school community.

What You’ll Do:

• Lead the kitchen in day-to-day operations, supervising staff while maintaining exceptional hygiene, safety, and presentation standards.
• Collaborate with the Head and Executive Chefs on menu planning, food production, and the creative development of new dishes.
• Prepare, cook, and present food that delights and inspires, consistently meeting Sodexo and Abingdon School’s exacting standards.
• Motivate and develop your team, fostering a positive, collaborative, and supportive kitchen culture.
• Manage stock, orders, budgets, and waste efficiently, ensuring smooth operations and quality control.
• Step in for the Head Chef when required, ensuring the kitchen runs seamlessly.
• Lead environmental initiatives and maintain full compliance with health, safety, and food safety regulations.

What You Bring:

• NVQ or equivalent professional catering qualification, Food Hygiene Certificate, and proven experience in a fast-paced, progressive catering environment. Experience in educational or contract catering is a plus.
• Exceptional culinary skills, with creativity in food concepts, flavour combinations, and presentation.
• Leadership abilities, with a talent for motivating and managing teams, excellent communication, and strong time-management skills.
• Professionalism, confidence, and a polished appearance, with high standards of personal hygiene.
• Flexibility, organisation, and a self-motivated approach, with a willingness to continue learning and developing your skills.
• Financial awareness to manage budgets, orders, and cost control effectively.
• Competency with computer systems and kitchen management tools.

At Abingdon School, your craft matters, your ideas are welcomed, and your passion for food will make a real impact every day. If you’re ready to lead, innovate, and inspire in a kitchen that celebrates excellence, this is the role for you.

What we offer:

Working with Sodexo isn’t just another job but a chance to be part of something that matters. Here, you’re welcomed for who you are, encouraged to bring your ideas and purpose to the table, and given the opportunity to make a real difference in the work you do every day. You’ll also find the support, flexibility, and room you need to grow in a way that feels right for you.

With over 20 Sodexo benefits to choose from, you’ll have access to a competitive retirement plan, discounts at 1,900+ retail brands, great gym offers, and a confidential 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme for emotional, legal, and financial support.

Ready to be part of something greater?

Sodexo and our clients are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Certain roles will require applicants to undergo screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (UK) and/or Disclosure Scotland (Scotland).

Note:

Sod the right to close this advert early if we receive a high number of applications.