Application Instructions
* You must clearly demonstrate on your application form under each question how, and to what extent you meet the required criteria. Failure to do so may result in you not being shortlisted.
* You must demonstrate how you meet the criteria by the closing date for applications, unless the criteria state otherwise.
* The stage in the process when the criteria will be measured is outlined below.
* Shortlisting will be carried out on the basis of the essential criteria set out in Section 1 below, using the information provided by you on your application form.
* In the event of an excessive number of applications, the Selection Panel reserves the right to apply desirable criteria as outlined in Section 3 at shortlisting.
Job Title
Catering Manager
Reports To
Regional Operations Manager
Responsible For
Catering Team Members
Job Purpose
The Catering Manager is responsible for the efficient day‑to‑day management of the kitchen. Leadership and team participation are essential to provide a quality catering service to our children, young people and staff.
Qualifications & Experience
* Hold NVQ level 2 in food preparation and cooking or City & Guilds 706‑1 & 706‑2 or equivalent or higher relevant qualification, OR have two years’ demonstrable experience in food preparation and cooking within a catering establishment.
* Evidence of effective supervision or management of a catering team.
* Demonstrable experience in stock control, budget management and financial controls.
* Knowledge of HACCP and the provision of special diets (allergens, ethnic diets).
* A willingness to undertake job‑related training.
* Have access to a suitable vehicle (maintained and insured for Education Authority business) or sufficient alternative transport for mobility requirements.
Desirable Criteria
* Demonstrable experience in IT skills (MS Outlook, Excel, Word, Teams).
* Demonstrable experience in delivering training.
Main Duties & Responsibilities
Service Delivery
* Execute skilled cooking activities and innovation across the menu provisions, including portion control, plating presentation and special dietary meals.
* Organise and supervise all aspects of food service, including service points and the transportation of meals.
* Manage overall operation of dining centre kitchens and the production kitchen.
* Follow EA policies and procedures for safe cooking and food service to meet current food safety legislation.
* Ensure allergen and special dietary requirements are met and the Allergen Matrix is up to date.
* Record food temperatures and complete required records.
* Manage deliveries, ordering, storage and stock‑take to ensure food safety and minimum wastage.
* Ensure safe operation of kitchen equipment and report any defects.
* Report incidents of fire, loss, damage, unfit food or pest infestation.
* Secure premises as required.
* Promote the catering service through parents, principals, pupils and customers.
* Establish effective communication links with the school regarding service delivery.
* Investigate and report local‑level customer complaints to the Regional Operations Manager.
* Manage internal risk assessments, including the Fire Risk Assessment.
* Handle feedback and complaints in a friendly and professional manner.
* Carry out additional duties assigned by the Regional Operations Manager.
People Management
* Efficiently manage the teams to deliver a high‑quality service.
* Supervise and direct employees, allocating duties and work rotas.
* Implement staff policies (disciplinary, grievance, attendance, absence, Return‑to‑Work).
* Participate in staff selection and support investigations in the grievance process.
* Induct new staff and monitor them throughout probation.
* Carry out required training and maintain training records.
* Communicate effectively at all levels through regular staff meetings.
* Manage staff performance, complete appraisals and set targets.
Financial
* Monitor unit financial performance and maintain costs within pre‑budgeted targets.
* Handle cash transactions and ensure accurate cash‑handling procedures.
* Manage resources (food, labour, overheads, equipment) following financial procedures.
* Complete clerical duties (order goods, accident reporting) for efficient operation.
General Responsibilities
* Comply with legal requirements, health and safety standards (HACCP, COSHH, Natasha’s Law).
* Perform necessary administration as required.
* Maintain personal hygiene and adhere to the EA uniform code.
* Attend scheduled training sessions and team meetings.
* Promote and uphold the values and ethos of the Education Authority.
* Adhere to the Education Authority staff code of conduct at all times.
This job description will be subject to review in light of changing circumstances and is not intended to be rigid and inflexible but should be regarded as providing guidelines within which the individual works.
In accordance with Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act (1998), the post‑holder is expected to promote good relations, equality of opportunity and pay, due regard for equality legislation and dignity at work at all times.
Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
To view the summary of terms and conditions for this post click here.
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