Head Chef Job at Plymouth, Devon Full Time

Salary: £32,612 per annumHours: 37.5 hours per weekContract: Full-time | 5 days out of 7 (shifts between 06:30 and 20:00)

We are recruiting an experienced Head Chef to lead a catering operation at Royal Marines Stonehouse, Plymouth. This is an excellent opportunity for a strong contract catering professional who thrives in a structured environment, enjoys leading from the front, and is passionate about developing a high-performing team.

You will take full ownership of the kitchen, managing a team and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, nutritious meals in line with military catering standards.

What you’ll be doing

• Preparing and delivering high-quality, nutritious meals to Service Personnel
• Leading a hands-on kitchen operation and setting standards through example
• Managing daily catering activities in line with contractual and operational requirements
• Line managing, coaching, and developing the team
• Supporting team training and driving continuous improvement and capability
• Overseeing food ordering, stock control, and waste management
• Ensuring consistently high food presentation and service standards
• Maintaining full compliance with Food Safety and Health & Safety regulations
• Managing kitchen audits, documentation, and compliance processes

What we’re looking for

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Chef, ideally within contract catering
• Experience managing and developing kitchen teams
• Strong knowledge of stock control, ordering, and auditing procedures
• A confident trainer with the ability to develop and motivate others
• Well-organised, calm, and comfortable working within a structured environment
• Flexible, reliable, and able to adapt to operational needs
• Able to commute reliably to Royal Marines Stonehouse, Plymouth

We ensure you’re rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:

• Contributory pension scheme
• Grow your career with 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 many more
• Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and many more
• Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
• Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
• Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
• You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families

About Us

Part of Compass Group UK&I, ESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland. We support 250+ UK military establishments, high profile police, secure environments and government sites, along with a range of onshore and offshore facilities including platforms, drilling rigs, floatels and offices for the energy sector. We know that a friendly face makes all the difference, so we look for people who are passionate about delivering excellent customer service, at all levels, to join our teams.

Job Reference: com/1905/95459001/52712754/SU #Defence

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!