Sodexo Live! have a rare opportunity for a highly talented Executive Chefto lead culinary innovation across our UK aviation lounges. As our Executive Chef – UK Aviation, you’ll be the driving force behind the culinary experience at some of the busiest and most prestigious UK airport lounges. Working across multiple sites, you’ll develop and elevate our food offer, shape culinary standards, and lead kitchen teams to deliver five-star service to some of the world’s most discerning travellers.This exciting role will suit an Executive Chef experienced in delivering high-quality, consistent food across multiple locations, managing food costs to meet margin targets, and building strong client relationships. You’ll be confident navigating food safety compliance and driven to exceed customer and passenger satisfaction in a fast-paced, premium hospitality environment.This is a rare opportunity to shape the culinary direction of premium airport lounges, work with global airline clients, and be part of a forward-thinking, passionate team at Sodexo Live!When you join Sodexo Live! you truly belong, you will have the opportunity to thrive with career and learning opportunities available across the organisation - we can’t wait for you to join us! This is a fantastic permanent position with opportunities for further career progression within a global organisation.Main ResponsibilitiesWhat you’ll do:Lead menu and recipe development in collaboration with our account and chef teamsDeliver culinary training and rollout support for new dishes across loungesOwn menu specification and costing, ensuring culinary excellence meets commercial successEnsure consistent food presentation and quality through regular site visits and auditsChampion food safety and compliance across all kitchen operationsPartner with global teams on airline tenders and culinary presentationsSupport FLOW training and SOP development with up-to-date culinary insightsDrive innovation in food concepts, plating, and customer experience For a full list of responsibilities please read the attached job descriptionThe Ideal CandidateWhat you bring:EssentialMultiethnic food knowledgeIOSH Managing SafelyCIEH Level 3High Level Excel Skills for menu costing and menu cost analysisClient relationship skillsFood / recipe development knowledgeFood photography knowledgeOrganisational and workforce planning Skills.Financial awareness and understandingCalm and patient under pressureAble to work within a very busy lounge and stressful environmentFine Dining experienceOverall, a passion for foodWhat we offerYou will be rewarded with a salary of £60,000pa - £65,000pa and access to a range of benefits, including a performance-related bonus, employer pension contribution, and life assurance – 1 x annual salary.Flexible benefits fund of £1,300 to utilise across an array of benefits.A flexible and dynamic work environment, fostering work-life balance.Competitive compensation, recognizing your valuable contributions.Access to ongoing training and development programs, empowering you to grow professionally.Countless opportunities to grow within the company, supporting your career progression. We also offer Sodexo Discounts site promoting discounted mobile phone tariffs, savings across restaurant chains and days out, where you and your family can save money on everything from your weekly food shop to the latest cinema blockbuster and much more!For more information on all the great benefits Sodexo offer to support you and your loved ones, check out the attached Benefits Guide at the bottom of this advert!Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today!We’re a Disability Confident Leader employer. We’re committed to changing attitudes towards disability, and making sure disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations. We run a Disability Confident interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria for the job.
**Keywords**
executive chef, chef aviation, Culinary Innovation, Menu Development, Food Cost Control, Client Relationship Management, Food Safety Compliance, Team Training & Leadership, Multi-site Operations, Premium Hospitality, chef airport lounges
