At Aramark, we empower our people to create experiences that matter. We share a passion for hospitality, it's at the foundation of everything we do. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. No matter what you're pursuing, we can help you reach your full potential. Every day presents a new challenge and opportunity to discover something new about yourself.

Aramark UK are currently recruiting for a Head Chef to join our team at Thirsk, YO7 3EZ. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and passionate culinary professional to lead a busy kitchen operation, delivering high-quality food and exceptional service within a secure and fast-paced environment.

The Role

As Head Chef, you will be responsible for the overall management of the kitchen, leading and motivating the catering team while ensuring the highest standards of food quality, safety and customer satisfaction. You will oversee food production, menu planning, stock management and compliance, helping to drive excellence across the operation.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading, managing and developing the kitchen team
• Planning, preparing and delivering high-quality meals in line with customer expectations
• Managing food ordering, stock control and budgetary requirements
• Ensuring compliance with food safety, allergen and health & safety regulations
• Maintaining high standards of food presentation, quality and consistency
• Training, coaching and supporting team members to achieve their full potential
• Monitoring kitchen performance and implementing continuous improvements
• Managing rotas and ensuring appropriate staffing levels are maintained
• Minimising food waste and promoting cost-effective kitchen operations

What's in it for You?

• £15.45 per hour
• 40 hours per week
• Working 5 days out of 7
• Various shift patterns available across Monday to Sunday
• Access to our Employee Benefits app: online GP, Employee Assistance Scheme, and hundreds of discounts (including supermarket savings and weekend treats)
• Company pension contributions
• Life assurance
• Generous holiday entitlement with the option to buy more
• Excellent training and development opportunities
• Apprenticeship schemes available
• Fantastic career progression opportunities, as we LOVE to promote from within
• Be part of a talented and supportive team

What We're Looking For

• Previous experience as a Head Chef, Sous Chef or senior kitchen leader in a high-volume catering environment
• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Excellent knowledge of food safety, allergens and health & safety legislation
• Experience managing food costs, stock control and kitchen budgets
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Passion for delivering high-quality food and outstanding customer service
• Relevant food hygiene qualifications are desirable

Additional Requirements

Due to the nature of the site, successful applicants must:

• Have lived in the UK for the past 3 years
• Have the legal right to work in the UK
• Be able to successfully obtain and maintain the required security vetting clearance
• Successfully complete a DBS check

Employment will be conditional upon the successful completion of all required pre-employment, DBS and security clearance checks.

At Aramark UK, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued and empowered to thrive.  

As a proud Disability Confident Employer, we actively encourage applications from individuals of all abilities and are dedicated to supporting employees with disabilities throughout their career journey. 

We are an Armed Forces Friendly organisation and proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant. We welcome applications from veterans, service leavers, cadet forces adult volunteers, reservists and military families.  

We ensure our recruitment process is accessible, and reasonable adjustments are available at every stage, from application to interview and employment. If you require any adjustments or have any questions, please reach out to our recruitment team – [email protected] 

Any offer of employment for this role will be conditional upon the successful completion and maintenance of the required level of security clearance. Applicants must meet the relevant eligibility and residency requirements applicable to the clearance level associated with the role.  

 Join us in fostering a workplace where everyone can achieve their full potential. 

All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.