Connect 2 Talent Solutions are seeking a dedicated and experienced Catering Manager or Head Chef to lead our catering operations in a school setting. This is a hands on leadership role requiring excellent culinary skills, team management, and a strong understanding of dietary needs and food safety.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead, manage, and motivate a team of catering staff to deliver high-quality meals consistently.
Organise staff rotas and shift patterns to cover early mornings, late evenings, and weekends (start from 6:00 AM, finish up to 8:30 PM).
Ensure all meals meet individual dietary needs, including allergens, special diets, and nutritional requirements.
Manage ordering, stock control, food storage, and stock rotation in compliance with food hygiene standards.
Maintain accurate budget records and effectively manage food and labour costs.
Ensure the catering provision complies with all relevant food hygiene, health & safety, and safeguarding standards.
Work collaboratively with school leadership to meet the needs of students, staff, and events.
Maintain cleanliness and organisation within the kitchen and dining areas at all times.
Person Specification:
Essential:
Proven experience as a Head Chef or Catering Manager, preferably within a school or similar environment.
Strong leadership and people management skills.
Knowledge of allergens, nutrition, and special dietary requirements.
Excellent organisational and time management skills.
Experience managing budgets and food stock control systems.
A valid DBS certificate (or willingness to obtain - £57 cost if not already held).
Flexible availability, including weekends, early mornings, and evenings.
PAY Negotiable dependant on experience.
Desirable:
Food Hygiene and Safety certifications.
Experience using catering stock management systems.
Working Pattern:
40 hours per week
All year round
Shift work (example: 4 or 6 days/week, with early and/or late shifts)
Start time from 6:00 AM, finish as late as 8:30 PM
Weekend availability is essential
If you're passionate about great food, nutrition, and creating a positive dining experience for students and staff, we'd love to hear from you.
Connect2TalentSolutions is a trading style of Dudley & Kent Commercial Services LTD - A joint venture between Dudley Metropolitan Council & Commercial Services Kent Ltd. Connect2TalentSolutions is an equal opportunities Employment Agency & Business. It positively encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates