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 ¦ 934965
Location ¦ Ipswich
Role ¦ Head Chef
Platinum Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.