Independents by Sodexo have a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Executive Chef to join our talented team at Churcher's College in Petersfield.At Independents by Sodexo pupils' health and wellbeing is at the root of everything we do. We deliver fresh food to be proud of: food that will sharpen the mind, energise and rejuvenate the body. Our approach is one of partnership, our heritage and inherent family values breathe through our experienced team, empowering a naturally entrepreneurial and agile approach, but always consistently.As the Executive Chef, you will collaborate closely with the Catering Manager while showcasing your leadership skills by orchestrating a talented team, effectively communicating, delegating tasks, and inspiring excellence in every culinary creation. With a strategic mindset, you'll navigate the challenges of a bustling day school environment and numerous functions, ensuring that every meal exceeds expectations.Ideally, you'll possess a background in contract catering and school dining, with a thorough understanding of allergens, school expectations, and robust systems. Experience in managing high-volume dining operations is crucial, as you'll be responsible for feeding approximately 1300 pupils during peak periods in just one hour. Successful candidates will participate in a face-to-face interview and trade/technical test to showcase their culinary expertise and leadership capabilities.You'll work 35 weeks during term time and provide holiday cover for 8 weeks on rotation. Not every day within those 8 weeks will be worked; instead, some days will be scheduled throughout the year.Sodexo and our clients are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults within a regulated activity. This role will require applicants to undergo screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and/ or Disclosure Scotland. What you’ll do:To develop a culinary strategy for Churcher's College and Independents By Sodexo which delivers “best in class” food and service to all customers and key stakeholders.To continually monitor and measure the success of said strategy and implement appropriate change, with the team as needed.Proactively drive change and culinary innovation throughout all areas of the food offer, including delivering an excellent hospitality and events offer, for both internal and external customers.Support the Sous Chef and Chef team at the Senior School and Chef manager at the Junior School ensuring compliance with role expectations.Develop the craft skills of the kitchen team where appropriate through training, coaching, and mentoring.For a full list of responsibilities please view the attached job descriptionWhat you bring:EssentialProven experience in managing and leading a teamIndustry acumen and knowledge of catering developments & innovationsStrong financial understanding and demonstrable in understanding budgetsExperienced in adhering to and driving company initiativesProven ability communicating at different levelsStrong communication and negotiation skillsExperience working in a standards /compliance environmentRelevant qualification and trainingIT literateDesirableTrainer / Coaching skills qualificationAbility to coach & mentor on a one-to-one basis What we offer:Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way. In addition, we offer:Flexible and dynamic work environmentCompetitive compensationAccess to ongoing training and development programsCountless opportunities to grow within the companyFor more information on all the great benefits Sodexo offer to support you and your loved ones, check out the attached Benefits Guide at the bottom of this advert!
