Head Chef

Position: Head Chef (Permanent)
Head Chef role in Ipswich - £33,750 per year plus excellent benefits
Full-time role at a residential activity centre, 5 days out of 7, split shifts, no late evenings, live-in available if needed

We're recruiting a Head Chef to lead the catering operation at a lively residential activity centre in Ipswich, where children and young people take part in action-packed outdoor adventures throughout the year. From early breakfasts before activities to evening meals after full days outdoors, you'll be responsible for delivering nutritious, high-quality food in a safe, organised and welcoming environment.

This is a full-time, permanent role offering structured split shifts, no late evenings, and long-term stability. It's ideal for an experienced Head Chef or Senior Chef ready to take ownership of a busy kitchen, lead a team, and maintain high standards while cooking for large groups.

Why apply / What's in it for you?

Full-time position working 5 days out of 7 with planned split shifts

* No late evenings, supporting a healthier work-life balance

* Salary of £33,750 per year

* Generous holiday allowance, plus bank holidays and an extra day off for your birthday

* Option to purchase additional annual leave and take paid volunteering days

* Ongoing training, mentoring and clear career development pathways

* Opportunities to work across other UK or European locations

* 24/7 access to wellbeing and mental health support, including an Employee Assistance Programme

* Family-friendly policies and a contributory pension scheme

* Financial wellbeing tools allowing you to save or borrow directly from your salary

* Free or heavily discounted family breaks, plus discounts at over 800 retailers

* Live-in accommodation available, if needed

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the kitchen team and oversee the preparation and service of nutritious, well-balanced meals

* Plan menus that meet nutritional guidelines while catering for medical, dietary and allergen requirements

* Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene, HACCP and health & safety compliance

* Manage stock, ordering and food costs to support efficient kitchen operations

* Train, support and develop the catering team to maintain consistent standards

* Organise kitchen workflows and rotas to meet operational needs

* Contribute to continuous improvement within the catering service

* Assist with wider centre duties within a busy outdoor residential activity environment in Ipswich

What we're looking for:

Previous experience as a Head Chef or Senior Chef in a high-volume catering environment

* Strong knowledge of food hygiene, allergen management and dietary requirements

* Confident leadership and team management skills

* Ability to remain organised and calm under pressure

* A flexible, team-focused approach to working split shifts

* Level 3 Award in Supervising Food Safety in Catering (desirable, not essential)
If you're ready to take the next step as a Head Chef in Ipswich, offering structure, responsibility and sociable hours within a rewarding residential setting, please apply now.

Job Number │ INDCATERERING │ (phone number removed)
Location │ Ipswich
Role │ Head Chef

Platinum Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy