Job Title

Executive Chef - University of KentWhy Join Us?We recognise and reward talent. That’s why we offer a comprehensive benefits package including (but not limited to):Contributory pension schemeCareer development through our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmesQuick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP and wider healthcare benefitsExclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, and moreSupermarket savings at Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and othersUp to 44% off cinema ticketsCash rewards every time you spend, redeemable across a wide range of brandsFree wellness, mindfulness and exercise classesThe ability to share discounts and offers with friends and familyThe RoleWe are seeking a passionate and visionary Executive Chef to lead and elevate the catering operation at the University of Kent.This is a high-profile, hands-on, craft-led role where you will work alongside your chefs daily to drive standards, innovation and consistency across a diverse university food estate — from core student dining and retail outlets to pop-ups, coffee shops, franchise partners and hospitality events.You will be responsible for creating a clear culinary vision for the campus, ensuring food presentation and service is modern, exciting and commercially successful.Key ResponsibilitiesCreate and deliver an overall culinary vision and food strategy across campusDesign innovative, commercially viable menus aligned to outlet themes and student demographicsPlan seasonal dish rotations to keep customers engaged and returningDevelop menus and manage item pricingSource high-quality ingredients and maintain accurate stock controlEnsure all kitchens are fully equipped and compliantMaintain exceptional food quality and exceed hygiene standardsRecruit, train, develop and motivate kitchen teamsManage budgets and deliver agreed financial targetsRoll out food concepts and innovative offers in partnership with the National Executive ChefSupport operational teams and location managers in consistently exceeding food standardsLead food presentation and service in an engaging, contemporary wayAttend client and university meetings as requiredAbout YouYou are an inspirational culinary leader with strong commercial awareness and a genuine passion for delivering outstanding food in a fast-paced university environment.Essential Requirements2+ years of culinary education5+ years’ experience in a similar Executive or Senior Chef positionCity & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or NVQ Level 3 in Catering (or equivalent)CIEH Level 3 Award in Food Safety in CateringAdvanced knowledge of culinary principles and practicesStrong understanding of BOH systems, ordering and inventory managementProven leadership and people management experienceExcellent organisational and administrative skillsAbility to work under pressure while maintaining high standardsIf you are ready to shape the future food offer at the University of Kent, develop talented chefs and deliver a vibrant, innovative catering experience for students, staff and visitors we would love to hear from you.About UsAs part of Compass you'll help to feed people, fuel progress and forge connections in around 6,000 venues. Join us to grow your career with the industry leader, and get competitive pay, great perks and unrivalled opportunities for learning and development, at one of the UK's biggest businesses.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!