Craft Development Chef

Dublin, Republic of Ireland Salary and Benefits: €55,000 - €60,000 DOE | Company Van | Sodexo Benefits Contract Type: Full-Time | Permanent About the Role We are looking for a passionate and commercially minded Craft Development Chef to support and elevate culinary standards across our Corporate Services portfolio in the UK & Ireland. This is a regional role focused on driving food innovation, operational excellence, culinary training, and client satisfaction across multiple sites. You will work closely with operational teams to develop food offers, support mobilisations and tenders, improve standards, and deliver engaging, high-quality food experiences aligned with Sodexo’s global food strategy. The role would suit an experienced Head Chef, Executive Chef, or Development Chef with strong operational and stakeholder management experience within contract catering or hospitality environments. Key Responsibilities Support and develop culinary standards across multiple client sites Drive menu innovation, recipe development, and food presentation standards Support food mobilisations, service improvements, and tender activities Coach, mentor, and develop culinary teams across the region Conduct food audits, trade testing, and operational reviews Ensure compliance with food safety, health & safety, and company standards Support commercial performance through labour efficiency, food cost control, and revenue opportunities Build strong relationships with clients and operational stakeholders Identify food trends and continuous improvement opportunities across the business About You Essential Experience within contract catering, hospitality, or corporate dining environments Strong culinary background with leadership experience across multi-site operations Passion for food innovation, menu development, and service excellence Strong stakeholder management and communication skills Commercial awareness including food cost, labour, and operational performance Advanced Food Safety qualification Full UK & Ireland driving licence Desirable City & Guilds, NVQ, or equivalent culinary qualification IOSH or health & safety qualification Experience supporting tenders, mobilisations, or food concept development Why Sodexo? Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater. Belong in a company and team that values you for you. Act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions. Thrive in your own way. We also offer a range of perks, rewards and benefits for our colleagues and their families: Unlimited access to an online platform offering wellbeing support An extensive Employee Assistance Programme to help with everyday issues or life's larger problems, including legal and financial advice, support with work or personal issues impacting your wellbeing Access to a 24hr virtual GP Service Sodexo Discounts Scheme, offering great deals 24/7 across popular high street retailers (also open to friends and family) Hours: 40 hours per week Career level: Entry Level Closing date: 26 May 2026