Temporary Head Chef – Leisure Centre, Oxford

Are you an experienced chef available for temporary work who thrives in community-focused catering environments? Chefs for Chefs is recruiting a Temporary Head Chef to lead kitchen operations at a busy leisure centre in Oxford. This is an excellent short-term opportunity for a confident leader who can deliver consistent, high-quality food across a varied, high-volume service.

Role Overview

As the Temporary Head Chef, you will be responsible for overseeing all culinary activity in the leisure centre kitchen. You will manage service and production, supervise a small team, maintain compliance with food safety standards, and ensure meals are produced on time and to specification for customers and centre events.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and present menus suitable for a leisure centre audience, including daily menus, buffets, and occasional functions.
• Lead, motivate, and manage kitchen staff during your shift, ensuring smooth service and clear communication.
• Maintain high standards of food hygiene, health & safety, and allergen management at all times.
• Manage stock levels, carry out ordering and deliveries, and control food cost and waste.
• Oversee kitchen cleaning schedules, equipment checks, and compliance with HACCP procedures.
• Adapt quickly to a changing environment and contribute positively to the wider site team.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in a Head Chef, Sous Chef, or Senior Chef role in high-volume or contract catering environments.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage and train small teams.
• Level 2 Food Hygiene certificate (or equivalent) and clear understanding of allergen procedures.
• Excellent organisational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work under pressure.
• Reliable, flexible, and able to work varied shift patterns including early starts, evenings, and occasional weekends.
• DBS check desirable for working within community and leisure settings (can be arranged).

Working Details & Pay

• Location: Leisure centre, Oxford
• Contract: Temporary (days/hours to be confirmed; flexible shifts required)
• Rate: £19.61 per hour (including holiday pay where applicable)
• Meals on duty: Provided

Why Work With Us

Chefs for Chefs specialise in hospitality placements and support chefs at every stage of their career. We offer:

• Competitive hourly pay and timely weekly payments.
• Flexible assignments that fit your availability.
• Variety of work across venues including pubs, hotels, care, and leisure sites.
• Friendly, chef-led office team who understand the realities of kitchen life.

How to Apply

If you’re experienced, reliable, and ready to step into a leadership role at a busy leisure centre in Oxford, please get in touch with Chefs for Chefs. Provide an up-to-date CV and availability. Successful applicants will be contacted for an initial phone call and may be asked to attend a short interview or trial shift.

Chefs for Chefs is committed to equal opportunities. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified applicants regardless of age, gender, religion, belief, race, sexual orientation, or disability. We operate as both an employment agency and an employment business.