Chef

Chef - NEXT Pontefract

Employer:
Eurest (Part of Compass Group)

Salary:
Competitive, dependent on experience

Shift Pattern:
Day shift 07:00 - 15:30

Working Pattern: 5/7 shift pattern

We are seeking an experienced Chef to lead our catering operation at NEXT Pontefract. This is a high-profile, fast-paced contract delivering fresh, seasonal food across multiple dayparts to a large on-site workforce.

You will be responsible for driving food quality, operational excellence, and team development while supporting the Chef Manager in the day-to-day running of the contract. This is an excellent opportunity for a strong kitchen leader looking to progress within a global organisation.

• Culinary Leadership:
  Lead the preparation and delivery of fresh, seasonal menus across breakfast, lunch, coffee shop, tea shift, and night shift operations.
• Team Management:
  Lead, coach, and develop the kitchen team, supporting recruitment, training, and performance management.
• Operational Support:
  Deputise for the Chef Manager as required, ensuring the smooth running of the contract in their absence.
• Food Safety & Compliance:
  Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, allergen controls, health & safety, and company standards.
• Quality & Standards:
  Maintain consistently high food quality, presentation, and service standards.
• Cost & Stock Control:
  Support ordering, stock management, waste control, and cost management in line with budgetary targets.

• Proven experience as a Chef within a high-volume catering environment
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage teams effectively
• Excellent knowledge of fresh food preparation, menu development, and production planning
• Strong understanding of food safety, allergens, and H&S legislation
• Commercially aware with experience supporting cost control and waste reduction
• Calm, organised, and adaptable in a fast-paced operational setting

• 28 days holiday including Bank Holidays
• Opportunity to purchase additional holiday
• Excellent work-life balance with structured shift patterns
• Free onsite parking
• Free meals while on shift
• Bespoke training and development opportunities
• Clear career progression within Compass Group
• Friend referral bonus
• Pension and life assurance
• Lifestyle, retail, and wellbeing discounts
• Employee Assistance Programme