Head Chef

We are seeking an exceptional Head Chef to lead the day to day running of our kitchens at ACS International School Cobham. You will be a confident leader who can manage, motivate and develop a talented catering team while delivering high quality, nutritious food to students aged 3 to 18.

This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who thrives on energy, precision and purpose.

If you are a skilled culinary leader ready to shape a dynamic school kitchen and inspire both team and students alike, we would love to hear from you.

Working hours are term time only, 06:30 – 16:00 Monday to Friday, 45 hours per week, 45 weeks per year (including 3 non term time weeks).

Start date: 13th April 2026.

As Head Chef, you will:

• Oversee the daily operation of the kitchens.
• Lead, mentor and develop catering staff.
• Deliver high volume, high quality breakfast and lunch services.
• Design innovative, nutritionally balanced menus.
• Take full operational responsibility in the Catering Manager’s absence.
• Support special events, executive dining and extra catering services.

You will play a central role in shaping both the food experience and the culture of the kitchen.

Health, Safety & Standards:

• Ensure full compliance with Health and Safety legislation and in house procedures.
• Lead the implementation and monitoring of HACCP policy.
• Maintain the highest standards of food hygiene and cleanliness.
• Achieve maximum scores in Local Authority hygiene inspections.
• Ensure all food storage and equipment meet required standards.

Leadership & Operational Excellence:

• Drive a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
• Oversee kitchen organisation and staffing efficiency.
• Support supply ordering, stock control and budget management.
• Develop strong operational knowledge to support succession planning.
• Provide clear, professional communication across teams.
• Potentially work across other ACS schools for cover, training or meetings.

Stock Control & Budget Management:

• Manage ordering, stock control and detailed record keeping.
• Minimise waste and improve waste reduction systems.
• Control costs while maintaining ingredient quality.
• Ensure menu specials make intelligent use of existing stock.
• Coordinate supply ordering with Front of House and kitchen teams.

Food & Menu Development:

• Lead the preparation and production of all food.
• Support grab and go and breaktime menus.
• Create engaging, innovative menus for a diverse international student body.
• Maintain high nutritional standards across all age groups

Sales & Engagement:

Working closely with the Catering Manager:

• Drive student uptake and engagement.
• Support cookery clubs, events and special functions.
• Build strong relationships with internal and external clients.
• Contribute to business growth and service development.

Sustainability & Continuous Improvement:
We are committed to responsible catering practices. You will:

• Support being a more sustainable kitchen environment.
• Promote efficient ordering and operational systems.
• Reduce waste and improve kitchen sustainability practices.

Experience, Skills and Qualifications required:

• Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate, level 3 is highly desirable.
• HACCP knowledge & implantation experience.
• First Aid at work qualification is desirable.
• Proven experience leading and developing a kitchen team of 15+, preferably as a Head Chef.
• Experience maintaining high food quality and presentation standards.
• Menu planning and development skills.
• Experience managing and ordering stock.
• Health and safety compliance.
• Strong leadership and team development skills.
• Ability to motivate and inspire a team.
• Resilient and adaptable.
• Flexibility with working hours including evenings and weekends.
• Own transport to campus due to the location is preferred.

Working hours: 06:30 – 16:00, Monday to Friday, term time only, 45 hours per week, 45 weeks per year (including 3 non term time weeks)

Start date: 13th April 2026

Closing date: 27th March 2026

Safeguarding:
ACS is committed to inclusion across race, gender, faith, identity and abilities. We believe that diversity helps us to fulfil our purpose, realise our vision and exemplify our values.

ACS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and employees of ACS are expected to share this commitment. This position is therefore subject to pre-employment compliance checks and an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service Check.