ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services
Chef
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Chef
Senior Chef – Defence Food Services (Full Time, 37.5 hrs per week)
We’re currently recruiting an ambitious Chef to help create exceptional food experiences for Defence clients and customers, within a market-leading food service company in the UK.
Open to individuals who bring their passion for culinary artistry and hands-on leadership in a high-pressure environment.
Key Responsibilities
This role involves exceeding expectations in food quality and service. Your core duties will include:
- Preparing and serving exceptional food that delights our clients and customers
- Overseeing menu development and implementing strategic changes
- Identifying ways to elevate our food services through creativity and efficiency
- Listening to customer feedback and implementing improvements based on insight
- Collaborating on new menu concepts and culinary innovation to stay ahead
- Brand representation – embodying Defence’s commitment to top-tier service
- Managing inventory to ensure kitchens remain well-stocked
- Overseeing kitchen hygiene to maintain rigorous Food Handling, Hygiene, and Health & Safety standards
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Requirements
To thrive in this role, you’ll need:
- A passion for great-tasting food and outstanding customer service
- A relevant qualification such as:
- City & Guilds (706/1 and 706/2)0 OR
- NVQ in Hospitality and Catering (equivalent level 2/3)
- Experience supervising a kitchen team
- Proven experience as a team leader or Chef in a fast-paced environment
- Valid Food Hygiene certificate
- Flexibility to adapt to shifting demands, including shift work (5 days in 7)
Benefits
Your hard work will be rewarded with a comprehensive benefits package, including:
✔ A contributory pension scheme to secure your future ✔ Opportunities to uplift your career via our Compass Professional Pathways and MyLearning programmes ✔ Digital First Healthcare access for you and your family ✔ Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and more ✔ Discounts on groceries at Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Morrison’s ✔ Up to 44% off cinema tickets ✔ Cashback rewards redeemable toward a wide range of brands ✔ Free wellness and mindfulness programmes ✔ Share special offers with your family and friends
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About Us
Part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, ESS Food & Beverage serves Defence, Government, and Energy sectors, supporting:
- Over 250 UK military establishments
- High-profile policing and secure environments
- A wide range of UK and offshore operations, including platforms, drilling rigs, and energy sector sites
We believe that a consistently positive touch is what sets exceptional service apart. Whether in uniformed units or executive dining facilities, we prioritise cultural depth, teamwork, and a dash of culinary creativity—because that’s how you turn a great meal into a memory.
Equality, Diversity & Belonging
Compass Group UK & Ireland is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every individual: ✅ Feels truly valued for who they are ✅ Has equal career advancement opportunities ✅ Thrive in a culture celebrating diverse talents and backgrounds Because diversity is our strength.
Job Reference: com/0207/95198001/52712422/SU #Defence
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