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Head Chef

Job details
Posting date: 03 March 2026
Salary: £16.40 per hour
Hours: Full time
Closing date: 02 April 2026
Location: Haywards Heath, RH16 1UD
Remote working: On-site only
Company: Sodexo
Job type: Permanent
Job reference: SDX/TP/1373940/154712

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Summary

Healthy outcomes start with positive patient experiences.

Head Chef
37.5 Hours per week
£16.40 per hour
5 Days over 7 with Various shifts
Location is Haywards Heath Nuffield, Burrell Road, Haywards Heath, RH16 1UD
Check your local transport links here: Plan Your Journey | Traveline - the destination you should input is: RH16 1UD

Please take the time to read the attached job description

Join our dedicated team at Haywards Heath Nuffield Hospital as a Head Chef and lead our culinary excellence! In this pivotal role, you'll take full responsibility for running the hospital kitchen and associated areas, ensuring all food is prepared to the highest standards in line with Sodexo and Nuffield policies. You'll play a key part in maintaining smooth operations, complete all necessary legal, company, and client administrative tasks, and confidently deputise for the Client Services Manager. If you're passionate about delivering top quality food and leading a dynamic catering team, this is your opportunity to make a real impact.

What you’ll do:

Ensure all food costs and budgets are exceeded and managed effectively
Lead and develop kitchen staff through training and performance reviews
Prepare and serve food for patients, visitors, and staff within agreed timelines
Maintain high standards of hygiene, cleanliness, and food safety in compliance with HACCP and legislation
Organise and oversee stock management, including ordering, storage, and rotation of supplies
Organise and coordinate hospitality functions as required
Deputise for the Client Service Manager and assist with administrative duties
Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and company policies in food preparation and service
What you bring:

Previous experience in similar role, healthcare catering experience desirable
Excellent craft and presentation skills
Good communication skills and customer focus
Strong team leader
Good financial awareness
City and Guilds 706/ 1 and 2 or equivalent
Level 3 Hygiene Certificate
IOSH managing safely
Diet cook’s certificate
What we offer:

Working at Sodexo isn’t just a job — it’s a chance to make a difference every day. You'll be part of a supportive team, act with purpose, and thrive in a role where your work matters. We also offer a range of benefits to support you and your loved ones:

Mental health and wellbeing resources
Employee Assistance Programme (including financial/legal advice and personal support)
Free health and wellbeing app with 24/7 virtual GP access
Discounts on high street brands for you and your family
Salary finance tools and financial wellbeing resources
Retirement savings plan and life insurance
Full training and protective uniform provided.
Opportunities to gain experience through learning and development.
Cycle to Work scheme and volunteering opportunities.
Flexible working and a dynamic team environment
Competitive pay
Ready to be part of something greater? Apply now and bring your energy, purpose, and passion to Sodexo.

We may close this advert early if we receive a high number of applications — so don’t wait!

Apply for this job