Head Chef

Head Chef – Ipswich

Full‑time role (5 days out of
7) with structured split shifts, no late evenings, and live‑in accommodation available if needed.

We are recruiting a Head Chef to lead the catering operation at a lively residential activity centre. You will be responsible for delivering nutritious, high‑quality food in a safe, organized and welcoming environment, from early breakfasts before activities to dinner after full days outdoors.

• Salary of £33,750 per year
• Generous holiday allowance, plus bank holidays and an extra day off for your birthday
• Option to purchase additional annual leave and take paid volunteering days
• Ongoing training, mentoring and clear career development pathways
• Opportunities to work across other UK or European locations
• 24/7 access to wellbeing and mental‑health support, including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Family‑friendly policies and a contributory pension scheme
• Financial wellbeing tools allowing you to save or borrow directly from your salary
• Free or heavily discounted family breaks, plus discounts at over 800 retailers
• Live‑in accommodation available, if needed

• Lead the kitchen team and oversee the preparation and service of nutritious, well‑balanced meals
• Plan menus that meet nutritional guidelines while catering for medical, dietary and allergen requirements
• Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene, HACCP and health & safety compliance
• Manage stock, ordering and food costs to support efficient kitchen operations
• Train, support and develop the catering team to maintain consistent standards
• Organise kitchen workflows and rotas to meet operational needs
• Contribute to continuous improvement within the catering service
• Assist with wider centre duties within a busy outdoor residential activity environment in Ipswich

• Previous experience as a Head Chef or Senior Chef in a high‑volume catering environment
• Strong knowledge of food hygiene, allergen management and dietary requirements
• Confident leadership and team management skills
• Ability to remain organised and calm under pressure
• A flexible, team‑focused approach to working split shifts
• Level 3 Award in Supervising Food Safety in Catering (desirable, not essential)

Location:

Ipswich