Executive Chef - Haywards Heath

Job Introduction

About us:

Our client is a market-leading contract caterer specialising in school food. They don't just serve meals—they create fantastic food experiences that fuel young minds! By blending deep knowledge of the education sector with the latest food trends, they encourage creativity and excitement in every kitchen. 

Their commitment to quality care for both clients and children has fueled rapid growth, and they are looking for passionate people like you to join their journey.

The role:

Our client is searching for a highly skilled and strategic Executive Chef to lead the culinary standards across their school sites in Haywards Heath. You will be instrumental in the rollout and launch of exciting new menus, using your expertise to ensure they are operationally sound, profitable, and genuinely delicious. You'll be the ultimate resource for our kitchen teams.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading the Rollout: Oversee the development and launch of innovative food offers, expertly balancing financial, operational, and consumer requirements.

• Trendsetting: Develop engaging food offers and marketing initiatives that keep us cutting-edge, profitable, and ahead of high-street trends.

• Mentoring and Coaching: Actively coach and develop Chefs and Unit Managers across your area on company standards, compliance, and policies related to food quality and safety.

• Driving Service Excellence: Guarantee that food standards, presentation and service are consistently immaculate, acting as a final point of escalation for customer issues..

• Driving Growth: Ensure our exceptional food offering increases sales and supports the retention of existing business.

• Compliance Expert: Uphold the strictest adherence to all company, client, and statutory regulations (H&S, hygiene, COSHH).

About you:

You are currently working in a development or senior culinary role and are ready for a new challenge.

• You can demonstrate exceptional creativity and flair in the food you produce.

• You possess strong industry knowledge, constantly keeping up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations.

• You have a strong understanding of budgets and costs and, crucially, the ability to effectively pass this financial knowledge on to your team.

• You have proven ability to communicate effectively at all levels, successfully driving company initiatives and engaging diverse audiences.

• You are highly experienced in working within a compliance-led environment, emphasising the importance of rigorous policies and procedures.

Why apply?

Join one of the UK's fastest-growing independent businesses where our clients people are truly at their core.

• Unlimited Career Growth: The opportunity to develop your career is endless. They offer fantastic Learning & Development programmes that include the ability to gain qualifications while receiving comprehensive support.

• 37.5 hours per week

• 39 weeks per year

• £27,000 - £28,000 per annum

Please note, our client expects all staff to share their commitment of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children/young people so an enhanced DBS disclosure will be sought by the company