Executive Chef
20 days ago
Canterbury
Executive Chef - University of KentWhy Join Us? We recognise and reward talent. That’s why we offer a comprehensive benefits package including (but not limited to): * Contributory pension scheme * Career development through our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes * Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP and wider healthcare benefits * Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and more * Supermarket savings at Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and others * Up to 44% off cinema tickets * Cash rewards every time you spend, redeemable across a wide range of brands * Free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes * The ability to share discounts and offers with friends and family The Role We are seeking a passionate and visionary Executive Chef to lead and elevate the catering operation at the University of Kent. This is a high-profile, hands-on, craft-led role where you will work alongside your chefs daily to drive standards, innovation and consistency across a diverse university food estate — from core student dining and retail outlets to pop-ups, coffee shops, franchise partners and hospitality events. You will be responsible for creating a clear culinary vision for the campus, ensuring food presentation and service is modern, exciting and commercially successful. Key Responsibilities * Create and deliver an overall culinary vision and food strategy across campus * Design innovative, commercially viable menus aligned to outlet themes and student demographics * Plan seasonal dish rotations to keep customers engaged and returning * Develop menus and manage item pricing * Source high-quality ingredients and maintain accurate stock control * Ensure all kitchens are fully equipped and compliant * Maintain exceptional food quality and exceed hygiene standards * Recruit, train, develop and motivate kitchen teams * Manage budgets and deliver agreed financial targets * Roll out food concepts and innovative offers in partnership with the National Executive Chef * Support operational teams and location managers in consistently exceeding food standards * Lead food presentation and service in an engaging, contemporary way * Attend client and university meetings as required About You You are an inspirational culinary leader with strong commercial awareness and a genuine passion for delivering outstanding food in a fast-paced university environment. Essential Requirements * 2+ years of culinary education * 5+ years’ experience in a similar Executive or Senior Chef position * City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or NVQ Level 3 in Catering (or equivalent) * CIEH Level 3 Award in Food Safety in Catering * Advanced knowledge of culinary principles and practices * Strong understanding of BOH systems, ordering and inventory management * Proven leadership and people management experience * Excellent organisational and administrative skills * Ability to work under pressure while maintaining high standards If you are ready to shape the future food offer at the University of Kent, develop talented chefs and deliver a vibrant, innovative catering experience for students, staff and visitors we would love to hear from you. About Us As part of Compass you'll help to feed people, fuel progress and forge connections in around 6,000 venues. Join us to grow your career with the industry leader, and get competitive pay, great perks and unrivalled opportunities for learning and development, at one of the UK's biggest businesses. 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. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!
ZeusGrillLtdActive 8 hours ago