Job Introduction
Head Chef – Glenart Castle (ESS, Compass Group UK & Ireland)
📍 Glenhart Castle
💷 £32,651 per annum
📅 5 days over 7
👨🍳 Small, friendly kitchen team of 5
About the Role
ESS, part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, is looking for a talented and passionate Head Chef to lead our small and friendly team at Glenhart Castle.
In this role, you’ll be responsible for delivering a wide variety of seasonal and private functions — from relaxed buffet-style dining to elegant silver service banquets — all while creating exceptional experiences for our guests in a welcoming, customer-facing environment.
Key Responsibilities
As Head Chef with ESS, you will:
Lead and motivate a team of 5, creating a supportive and collaborative kitchen environment
Prepare and present a range of dishes to consistently high standards
Deliver food for seasonal events, private functions, and banquets, from buffets to silver service
Work directly with customers to ensure their dining experience exceeds expectations
Oversee ordering, stock control, and food waste management
Maintain the highest standards of food hygiene, health, and safety compliance
Manage kitchen schedules and ensure smooth day-to-day operations
About You
Our ideal Head Chef will:
Hold relevant professional catering qualifications (e.g., NVQ or City & Guilds)
Have proven experience leading a small kitchen team in a similar environment
Be confident delivering both buffet and silver service dining
Thrive in a customer-facing role, with excellent communication skills
Be creative, organised, and passionate about seasonal, high-quality food
Demonstrate strong leadership and a hands-on approach
Why Join ESS?
At ESS, we are proud to serve those who serve the nation. We deliver high-quality catering and hospitality services across Defence, Government, and Energy sectors. As part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, you’ll benefit from industry-leading training, career progression opportunities, and the chance to be part of a global organisation that truly values its people.