Head Chef

Grounded in Scotland, Ready for the World
Head Chef – Edinburgh Academy Junior School,10 Arboretum Road, Edinburgh, EH3 5PL
Christmas & New Year Off – Every Year
The Edinburgh Academy is a modern, vibrant, co-educational school for 2–18 year olds.Located on two historic sites in the heart of Scotland’s capital, we provide the very best in 21st-century education.Our ethos, size, and genuine individual care make us sector-leading in supporting the unique talents, needs, and ambitions of all.
Hospitality with a Work-Life Balance
At Sodexo and Edinburgh Academy, we believe you can have a rewarding career in hospitality without constant weekend shifts or late nights.Join a passionate team, deliver exceptional service, and still enjoy your evenings and weekends to recharge.
The Role:
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Head Chef to lead our catering operations at the Junior School.This is a fantastic opportunity for a dynamic leader with creativity, passion, and drive to deliver excellence in food and service.
Key Details
– Salary: £35,000 per annum
– Hours: 40 hrs per week
– Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7.00am–3.30pm (occasional weekend business as required)
– Enhanced PVG checks required
– Driving licence and own car essential
What You’ll Do:
As Head Chef, you’ll lead from the front, combining hands-on culinary expertise with strong leadership skills to inspire your team. You will:
– Deliver high-quality catering and hospitality, always exceeding client expectations.
– Lead menu planning, food production, and kitchen operations with creativity and precision.
– Uphold the Fresh Food from Scratch philosophy across all services.
– Maintain the highest standards of hygiene, safety, and compliance.
– Manage budgets effectively and ensure cost-efficient operations.
– Train, motivate, and support your team to achieve their best.
– Champion allergen management and ensure accurate, up-to-date information is always available.
– Organise and oversee special functions and hospitality events as required.
About You:
We’re looking for someone who combines culinary excellence with strong leadership skills.
You will bring:
– Professional catering experience ESSENTIAL, preferably in contract catering/large scale catering.
– Experience leading a busy, client-facing kitchen brigade.
– Strong budget management and computer literacy.
– NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent chef qualifications.
– Food Safety Level 2 or above.
– A proven ability to perform under pressure with excellent time management.
– A positive, enthusiastic, and self-motivated approach.
– Flexibility, decisiveness, and the ability to inspire others.
(Additional training such as RIPHH & IOSH Certificates is desirable—or a willingness to complete within 4 months.)
What We Offer:
At Sodexo, this is more than just a job—it’s a career where you’ll be valued, supported, and empowered.
You can expect:
– Competitive salary and excellent benefits.
– Clear opportunities for growth and development.
– A diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace.
– The chance to make a real impact in an environment that values sustainability and service excellence.
Additional Perks:
– Unlimited access to online mental health and wellbeing support.
– Employee Assistance Programme (legal, financial, personal support).
– 24/7 access to a virtual GP service.
– Sodexo Discounts Scheme for you, family, and friends.
– Mercer Aspire Pension Plan.
– Learning & development opportunities.
– Bike to Work Scheme.
Ready to Join Us?
If you’re a passionate, experienced Head Chef who thrives on leadership, creativity, and delivering excellence, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply today and take the next step in your Sodexo journey.
Please note: Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if a high volume of applications is received.