Catering Manager
We are seeking a passionate and experienced Catering Manager to lead a dynamic team delivering nutritious meals and transforming lives through food.
Job Title: Catering Manager
Salary: £35,909-£40,261 per annum
Location: Essex
Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week (including weekends on a rota basis)
Closing Date: 10th November 2025
Interviews: 27thNovember 2025
About the Role
This is a unique opportunity to lead a values-driven catering service that goes beyond food,supporting wellbeing, recovery, and community connection. As Catering Manager, you'll oversee operations across multiple supported accommodation sites, ensuring the consistent delivery of safe, nutritious meals that make a real difference.
You'll manage a team of supervisors, cooks, drivers, and volunteers, embedding quality, compliance, and creativity into every aspect of the service. From strategic planning and budget oversight to training and community engagement, your leadership will help shape a service that nourishes both body and soul.
Key responsibilities include:
Leading catering operations across multiple service sites
Managing budgets, procurement, and supplier relationships
Ensuring compliance with HACCP, allergen, and food safety standards
Recruiting, training, and supporting staff and volunteers
Designing and delivering food hygiene and employability training
Building partnerships with foodbanks, colleges, and community groups
Supporting fundraising and awareness through food-based events
Promoting inclusion, dignity, and trauma-informed practice in all catering environments
About You
You're an experienced catering professional with a passion for people and purpose. You thrive in fast-paced environments and bring creativity, resilience, and a hands-on approach to leadership.
You'll bring:
Significant experience managing catering operations or commercial kitchens
Strong knowledge of food safety, HACCP, and allergen management
Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop diverse teams
Excellent organisational, IT, and communication skills
A flexible, solutions-focused mindset and a full manual driving licence
A Level 3 Food Safety qualification (Level 4 desirable)
About the Organisation
This role is offered through a leading support provider working with individuals on their journey out of homelessness. The catering team plays a vital role in this mission providing more than meals, they offer hope, skills, and a sense of belonging.
Other roles you may have experience of could include:
Head Chef, Kitchen Manager, Food Services Manager, Hospitality Manager, Community Kitchen Coordinator, Catering Operations Manager, Chef Manager, Volunteer Catering Lead.
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