ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services
Chef
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Chef
Chef Role for Defence Food Services (Full-Time, 40 Hours Per Week)
As part of a market-leading food service company in the UK, we’re recruiting a passionate, ambitious Chef to deliver outstanding food experiences for defence, government, and energy sector clients.
Working within ESS, part of Compass Group UK&I, you’ll help elevate the dining experience for military, police, and high-profile environments while contributing to a company that invests in its people, celebrates individuality, and recognises exceptional performance.
Shift Pattern
Mon-Fri + an additional 2 days (part of a 5 out of 7-day rotation).
Your Key Responsibilities
As a Chef at Defence, your role will include:
- Preparing and serving high-quality, delicious food that delights clients and customers
- Overseeing and implementing menu changes in response to demands and trends
- Identifying opportunities to improve food services and operational efficiency
- Listening to customer feedback and acting on it to enhance service standards
- Supporting the creation of new menus and culinary concepts
- Representing Defence with professionalism and maintaining a strong brand image
- Monitoring inventories to ensure kitchens remain well-stocked
- Ensuring all kitchen cleaning responsibilities are met to meet hygiene standards
- Complying with Food Handling, Hygiene, and Health & Safety regulations
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Requirements
Ideal Candidate
- Passionate about great-tasting food and exceptional customer service
- Qualified Chef:
- City & Guilds 706/1 & 2
- NVQ Level 2 or equivalent
- Experience supervising a team in a food service environment
- Prior experience in a Chef or similar role
- Hold a valid Food Hygiene Certificate
- Flexibility to adapt to varied shift patterns and high-pressure environments
Benefits & Opportunities
Compass Group UK&I values its employees and offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Contributory pension scheme
- Career development through Career Pathways programmes and MyLearning initiatives
- Healthcare support: Access to a Digital GP and expanded services for you and your family
- Exclusive travel discounts: Reductions on TUI, Expedia, Booking.com + more
- Discounted grocery shopping with Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Morrisons
- Film fans: Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy blockbusters
- Cashback rewards – earn discounts on a wide range of brands
- Wellbeing support: Free wellness, mindfulness, and fitness classes
- Share benefits with your friends and family
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Note: This role operates on a metricated week basis.
About Us
We are ESS, part of Compass Group UK&I, serving 250+ UK military establishments, police, government sites, and energy sector facilities—including offshore drilling rigs, platforms, and secure operations.
Compass Group UK&I is committed to equality, inclusion, and diversity, fostering a workplace where every employee can thrive.
Job Reference: com/0207/87015001/52808115/R/SU #Defence | We’re making a positive difference.
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