Head Chef / Head Cook Salary: £34,000 - £37,000 (dependent on experience) Location: Lancashire Hours: Typically 7:00am – 4:00pm, with flexibility required. No regular late finishes - two evenings until approximately 6:15pm per week and one short Saturday shift every six weeks. This position is being managed exclusively and confidentially on behalf of our client by NW Recruitment Services Ltd. Role background: Are you an experienced Head Chef or Head Cook looking to step into a corporate catering environment where quality, consistency, and creativity truly matter? This rare opportunity offers the chance to lead a small, skilled kitchen team within a respected and forward-thinking nationwide manufacturing organisation. About the role: You’ll oversee the day-to-day operation of a busy on-site kitchen, serving breakfast and lunch menus to around 200 covers daily. While this is a structured catering environment over a traditional hospitality setting - it’s one that values fresh, nutritious food and welcomes your culinary flair. You'll supervise a team of four kitchen staff, ensuring impeccable standards in food preparation, presentation, and service. With established supplier accounts already in place, you’ll be provided with the freedom to suggest alternative ingredients or bring in trusted suppliers where appropriate. The daily offering includes: • A balanced breakfast and lunch menu • Regular dietary and allergen-friendly options • Occasion-driven bespoke dishes for visiting or senior guests This position reports within the onsite facilities and catering function of a major UK employer. It’s hands-on, collaborative, and offers real scope to shape the ongoing menu direction. Key responsibilities: • Day-to-day management of up to date and newly refurbished kitchen operations and food service offering. • Supervising a small, experienced kitchen team. • Delivering consistent, high-quality meals using fresh ingredients. • Menu planning, stock control, and budget management. • Ensuring compliance with all food hygiene and health & safety standards. • Assist in the catering for company-sponsored events (adhoc). What we’re looking for: • Proven experience as a Head Chef, Cook, or Senior Chef in a similar environment (corporate catering, education, or contract catering). • A passion for creating fresh, flavourful meals within a set menu framework. • Strong organisation, communication, and leadership skills. • Solid knowledge of allergen management, HACCP, and nutrition. • Flexibility and enthusiasm for contributing new ideas to menu innovation. • Access to own transport due to multi-site (local and adhoc) holiday cover. What’s on offer: • Competitive salary of £34,000 – £37,000, depending on experience. • Daytime working hours with very limited weekend cover. • Free on-site parking and staff meals provided. • Generous holiday allowance including bank holidays. • Company pension scheme and life assurance. • Access to wellbeing and employee support initiatives. • Opportunities for professional growth within a stable, established organisation. Application & interview process: The position is offered on a permanent basis from day one and follows a two-stage interview process. If you’re looking to combine professional kitchen leadership with genuine work-life balance - without the long evenings typical of hospitality, we’d love to hear from you.