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Sous Chef
Location: DMS Whittington Business Area: ESS – Defence, Marine & Aerospace (DMA) Reporting to: Head Chef / Catering & Accommodation Manager
About the Role
We are looking for a passionate and experienced Sous Chef to support the culinary operation at DMS Whittington. This is a hands on leadership role where you will assist in managing the kitchen team, ensuring high standards of food quality, safety, and service are consistently delivered.
You will play a key part in menu delivery, food production, compliance, and the ongoing development of a skilled and motivated kitchen brigade.
Working as part of a team of 12, supporting service delivery for 120–250 covers per service.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the Head Chef in planning, preparing and delivering meals to agreed standards and service times
- Lead and supervise kitchen teams during shifts, ensuring smooth and efficient operations
- Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation, and portion control
- Ensure full compliance with Food Safety, Health & Safety, allergen, and hygiene standards
- Assist with stock control, ordering, waste management, and cost control
- Train, coach, and develop junior kitchen staff
- Deputise for the Head Chef when required
- Maintain accurate kitchen documentation, including temperature logs and cleaning schedules
About You
You are a committed culinary professional with strong organisational skills and a hands-on approach. You thrive in a structured but fast-paced environment and are comfortable leading teams while delivering consistent food quality.
Essential Skills & Experience:
- Proven experience as a Sous Chef or strong Chef de Partie ready to step up
- Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (essential)
- Strong understanding of food production methods and kitchen operations
- Experience working to set menus and service times
- Good communication and team leadership skills
- Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing operational needs
Desirable:
- Experience in contract catering or high-volume food service
- Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate
- Knowledge of allergens, nutrition and dietary requirements
- Previous experience in a defence, education, or healthcare setting
What We Offer
- Great work life balance
- Discounted concert tickets
- Access to 30,000+ national & local employee discounts
- AVIVA Digicare+
- Free meals on duty, free gym membership, free on-site car parking
- A stable, permanent role within a reputable contract catering organisation
- Structured working environment with clear processes and standards
- Opportunities for career development and progression
- Supportive management and team-focused culture
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:
- Free meals
- Free on-site gym
- Onsite free car parking
- Discounted Event tickets
- 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/1205/94501001/52807686/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!
