Catering Manager Job Start Date: asap Salary: Grade SC6, £21,970.21 - £23,476.37 per annum 30 hours per week Purpose: To lead and manage the school catering service, ensuring effective service delivery, compliance with statutory requirements, sound financial management, and continuous service improvement. The Catering Manager will exercise professional judgement, operate with a high degree of autonomy, and provide direct line management to the Chef in Charge and catering staff. Key Duties and Responsibilities Leadership and Service Management Provide strategic leadership and full operational oversight of the catering service Set service standards, procedures, and priorities in line with school and local authority requirements Plan, review, and develop the catering provision to meet the needs of pupils within a specialist SEN setting Line Management Line manage the Chef in Charge and catering staff, including supervision, appraisal, attendance, and performance management Allocate duties and manage staffing levels to ensure effective service delivery Identify training needs and support staff development Financial Management Hold delegated responsibility for the catering budget Plan, monitor, and control expenditure to ensure value for money Authorise procurement, ordering, and stock control Compliance and Quality Assurance Ensure compliance with food hygiene legislation, health and safety regulations, allergen requirements, and statutory school food standards Lead on catering-related inspections, audits, and record keeping Monitor service quality and implement improvements where required Collaboration and Communication Work closely with senior leaders to support whole-school priorities Act as the main point of contact for catering-related matters Liaise with suppliers, contractors, and external agencies General Contribute to policy development relating to catering, health, and wellbeing Undertake any other duties commensurate with the grade and responsibilities of the post Essential Criteria Substantial experience in a catering management or senior supervisory role Proven experience of line management and staff supervision Demonstrable experience of budget management and financial accountability Thorough knowledge of food safety legislation, allergen management, and health and safety Ability to manage a service independently and strategically Strong organisational and communication skills Commitment to safeguarding and inclusive practice Desirable Criteria Experience working within a school, local authority, or SEN environment Relevant catering management or food safety qualifications Experience of inspections, audits, or service improvement initiatives Why Join Regency? We offer a welcoming, supportive, and innovative learning environment supported by experienced leadership and a dedicated team of staff. CPD, training, and professional development opportunities on key priorities. Purpose-built facilities and specialist resources A chance to be part of a school that truly transforms lives. We warmly invite interested applicants to arrange an informal visit to the school. Come and see for yourself what makes Regency a truly special place to work. Please note: We will interview candidates before the closing date if suitable applications are received. Early applications are encouraged, and the vacancy may close once sufficient high-quality applications are submitted. How to Apply Visit our website at www.regency.worcs.sch.uk for further information and to download an application pack. For any enquiries or to arrange a school visit, please contact the school office directly. Join us and make a difference – every day. Closing Date: 30.01.2026 Interviews: 02.02.2026 Regency High School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check, disclosure by association, and medical clearance check. Application Forms and further details are available on our website: www.regency.worcs.sch.uk or from the School Office at Regency