Executive Head Chef

Job Introduction

Executive Head Chef

• Preston North End, Sir Tom Finney Way, Preston PR1 6RU

• £40,000pa + excellent benefits 

• 40hrs pw 5/7

• NVQ Level 3 in Culinary Arts or equivalent, Food safety level 2 essential

Job Introduction 

At Sodexo Live!, we create unforgettable moments at some of the world’s most iconic venues. We are now seeking an exceptional Executive Head Chef to lead all culinary operations at Preston North End F.C.

This is more than a kitchen leadership role. It’s an opportunity to shape the entire food experience; from premium hospitality and executive lounges to high-energy fan concessions and non-matchday events.

If you are a commercially astute culinary leader who thrives in high-volume environments and inspires excellence, this is your stage.

At Sodexo Live!, we don’t just serve food; we create experiences that bring people together. You’ll have the autonomy to shape the culinary identity of Deepdale while being supported by a global organisation committed to innovation, sustainability, and people development.

This is your opportunity to leave a culinary legacy at one of football’s historic venues.

What You'll Do:

• Lead all culinary operations across multiple outlets, including fine dining hospitality, casual concessions, and event catering.

• Develop and deliver innovative, trend-led, and commercially viable seasonal menus tailored to diverse audiences.

• Manage and mentor a team of core chefs and matchday staff, fostering a culture of performance, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

• Oversee food cost control, labour management, and inventory to achieve site cost of sale targets and maximise profitability.

• Ensure full compliance with food safety, allergen management, and health & safety regulations, promoting a Zero Harm mindset.

• Deliver consistent quality, portion control, and presentation standards across all service points.

• Lead client tasting sessions and contribute to event planning and pre-season preparations.

• Work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to drive operational excellence and service standards.

For a full list of responsibilities please view the attached job description 

What You Bring:

• An ambitious, resilient, and confident culinary leader

• Experienced in high-volume, multi-outlet environments (stadia, hotels, large venues)

• Commercially sharp with proven P&L accountability

• Passionate about food trends, innovation, and sustainability

• A hands-on leader who leads by example

• Guest-focused, adaptable, and driven by excellence

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

• NVQ Level 3 in Culinary Arts (or equivalent)

• Level 4 Food Safety & Hygiene (preferred)

• Proven leadership in complex, high-volume operations

• Strong financial acumen and cost control expertise

• Experience managing large teams including casual workforce

What we offer:

Working with Sodexo Live! is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way. In addition, we also offer a range of resources, rewards and benefits for our colleagues and their families:

• Unlimited access to an online platform offering mental health and wellbeing support.

• Employee Assistance Programme to help with everyday issues or larger problems where you may need additional support, including legal and financial advice, support with work related issues or personal issues such as bereavement.

• Access to a free health and wellbeing app that provides rewards for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and includes access to a 24hr virtual GP and various other services.

• The Sodexo Discounts Scheme, offering great deals 24/7 (also open to friends and family) and/or the prepayment cashback card.

• Money Insights and financial benefits via the Salary Finance Platform.

• Save for your future by becoming a member of the Sodexo Retirement Plan

• A Death-in-Service benefit for colleagues who pass away whilst employed by Sodexo

• Opportunities to enable colleagues to grow and succeed throughout their career at Sodexo, including a variety of learning and development tools.

• Cycle to Work Scheme to help colleagues to do their bit for the environment whilst keeping fit.

• Volunteering Opportunities to enable all colleagues to help support worthwhile causes in our communities.

• Flexible and dynamic work environment 

Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today!

Sodexo reserves the right to close this advertisement early if we are in receipt of a high volume of applications.

About Sodexo 

At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better every day for everyone to build a better life for all. As the global leader in services that improve the Quality of Life, we operate in 55 countries, serving over 100 million consumers each day through our unique combination of On-Site Food and FM Services, Benefits & Rewards Services and Personal & Home Services. 

We are committed to being an inclusive employer. We are a forces friendly employer. We welcome and encourage applications from people with a diverse variety of experiences, backgrounds, and identities. We encourage our employees to get involved with our Employee Networks such as Pride, Sodexo Parents & Carers, Sodexo Disability, Ability network, So Together, Generations and Origins.

Sodexo Disability, Ability network, So Together, Generations and Origins.

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.

Click here to read more about what we do to promote an inclusive culture.