Role Overview

Odyssey Health Club & Spa is seeking an experienced, passionate, and creative Head Chef to lead our kitchen operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering exceptional breakfast, lunch and occasional event menus that reflect our commitment to health, wellness, and outstanding hospitality.

As Head Chef, you will oversee all aspects of the kitchen, including menu development, food quality, team leadership, stock control, food safety compliance, and financial performance. You will play a key role in enhancing the dining experience for our members, spa guests, and visitors.

Key Responsibilities

Kitchen Leadership

· Lead, motivate, and develop the kitchen team to deliver consistently high standards.

· Recruit, train, and mentor chefs and kitchen assistants.

· Create a positive, professional, and collaborative working environment.

· Manage staff rotas to meet business needs efficiently.

Food Preparation & Service

· Ensure all food is prepared and presented to the highest standards.

· Develop seasonal and nutritious menus aligned with the club's wellness ethos.

· Introduce new dishes and promotions that appeal to members and guests.

· Maintain consistency in portion control, presentation, and quality.

Kitchen Operations

· Oversee the day-to-day running of the kitchen.

· Manage stock ordering, supplier relationships, inventory, and stock rotation.

· Minimise food waste while maintaining excellent quality.

· Monitor kitchen equipment and arrange maintenance where required.

Financial Management

· Control food costs and labour budgets.

· Monitor gross profit margins and implement cost-saving initiatives.

· Analyse sales performance and adjust menus where appropriate.

· Ensure accurate stock counts and reporting.

Food Safety & Compliance

· Ensure full compliance with Food Hygiene Regulations, HACCP, allergen legislation, and Health & Safety standards.

· Maintain excellent kitchen cleanliness and organisation.

· Prepare for and manage Environmental Health inspections.

· Ensure all food safety documentation is completed accurately.

Customer Experience

· Deliver an exceptional dining experience for members and guests.

· Work closely with the Food & Beverage team to ensure seamless service.

· Cater for dietary requirements, allergies, and special events.

· Respond positively to customer feedback and continuously improve standards.

Skills & Experience

· Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a busy hospitality environment.

· Strong leadership and people management skills.

· Excellent knowledge of food safety, HACCP, and allergen management.

· Experience with menu planning and food costing.

· Strong organisational and time management skills.

· Passion for fresh, healthy, and innovative cuisine.

· Ability to work under pressure while maintaining high standards.

Qualifications

· Professional Chef qualification (NVQ Level 3 or equivalent preferred).

· Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate (or willingness to obtain).

· HACCP knowledge and understanding.

· First Aid qualification desirable.

Personal Attributes

· Takes ownership of their department and their team.

· Passionate about food and hospitality.

· Creative and commercially aware.

· Positive, approachable, and professional.

· Excellent communication and leadership skills.

· High attention to detail.

· Flexible and reliable.

What We Offer

· Competitive salary.

· Complimentary health club membership.

· Staff discounts on food, beverages, associate memberships and spa treatments.

· Company pension scheme.

· Training and professional development opportunities.

· Free on-site parking.

· Uniform provided.

· Supportive and friendly working environment.

At Odyssey Health Club & Spa, we are committed to providing outstanding food, exceptional service, and memorable experiences. If you are an ambitious chef who thrives in a quality-focused environment and enjoys inspiring a team, we would love to hear from you.