Job Title

Head Chef - Newmarket Racecourses | Full-Time / Permanent 45,000 + excellent benefits including healthcare, wellbeing support, 23 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, life assurance, meals on duty, and more. We are seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead our culinary team at Newmarket Racecourses. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated individual who thrives in a dynamic, high-volume environment and is ready to elevate racecourse dining to the next level. As Head Chef at Newmarket Racecourses, you will lead and inspire a large, talented kitchen brigade, delivering exceptional food quality, creativity, and presentation across one of the most iconic sporting venues in the UK. There are no split shifts, and weekend work is event-based only, with up to 20 weekends per year (not all including Sundays), allowing for a healthier work-life balance rarely found at this level. Newmarket Racecourses is part of Jockey Club Catering, a partnership between the leading commercial group in British horse racing - The Jockey Club, and Compass Group UK & Ireland. We are Levy We are a visionary venue partner. We design and deliver bespoke guest experiences that prioritise people and the planet. Trusted by some of the world's most iconic stadiums, entertainment venues, and major events, from Wimbledon and Twickenham to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Edgbaston, the SEC and ExCeL London - we bring experiences to life with passion and precision. Our mission is to succeed the right way. From pioneering tech and seamless operations to show-stopping menus and exceptional service, we use insight and innovation to understand guests, improve the customer journey, reduce environmental impact, and support local communities. We are a passionate, diverse team of venue specialists dedicated to making the planet better for future generations. Head Chef - The Role This exciting Head Chef role is a varied, fast-paced, and highly rewarding role that offers genuine breadth and challenge beyond traditional hospitality. Lead the culinary team in delivering exceptional food quality and presentation for race days, events, and functions. Oversee daily kitchen operations including planning, preparation, production, and service. Ensure compliance with all food hygiene, health and safety, and allergen management protocols. Champion training and development within the kitchen team - supporting junior chefs and creating a culture of growth and accountability. Collaborate with front-of-house and planning teams to ensure seamless service and guest satisfaction. Drive menu innovation and support in cost control, ordering, and stock management. Maintain high morale and a positive working atmosphere within the team. Always Represent Levy and Newmarket Racecourses values: excellence, teamwork, and professionalism. What we're looking for Proven experience in a Head Chef role within large-scale events, hospitality, banqueting and fine dining. Passion for food, creativity, and delivering a legendary dining experience. Fine Dining experience, this is essential for creating menus for VIP clients and restaurants, including building our own recipes. Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills. Solid knowledge of food safety legislation and procedures. A proactive and solutions-driven mindset, with the ability to adapt in a fast-paced environment. Computer literacy, ideally with restaurant/bar software experience What you'll get in return Competitive salary with discretionary Christmas bonus and full company benefits 23 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, your birthday off, and a holiday purchase scheme Healthcare & wellbeing: Aviva Digicare, Medicash (dental, optical, therapy treatments) Mental health support: 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme Family benefits: Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave. 2 days? additional leave after returning from maternity leave, day off for your baby?s first birthday, enhanced family leave Perks & discounts: Shopping, entertainment, and travel discounts, 20% off Nuffield Health and 10% off PureGym memberships Financial wellbeing: Pension scheme, Life Assurance, preferred rates on salary finance products Development opportunities: Professional subscriptions, ongoing training and structured career pathways Meals on duty included Free on-site parking Opportunity to work across major sporting and hospitality events nationwide A fun and supportive team with flexible shift options Why Join Us? Levy UK & Ireland is part of Compass Group, the world's largest catering company, and a vibrant leader in hospitality. We believe in celebrating individuality and building inclusive teams where everyone feels they belong. Our diverse team fuels creativity, innovation, and excellence. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join us in creating a supportive, empowering workplace where everyone can thrive. Together, we create unforgettable experiences, and shape the future of hospitality. TPBN1_UKCT