Job Type: Full Time, Term Time Only
Salary: FTE is £45,000 to £51,000 per annum (actual salary £34,500 to £39,230 per annum) depending upon experience
Start Date: 1 September 2026
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Chef Manager (Catering Operations) to lead and develop our school catering provision.
The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering a high-quality food service for pupils, staff and visitors, ensuring meals are nutritious, appealing and cost-effective. This is a hands-on management role combining culinary leadership with operational, financial and compliance responsibilities.
The role involves leading all aspects of the catering operation, including menu development, food preparation and service, staff management, budget control and stock management. The Chef Manager will also oversee catering for school events and match teas, while ensuring the highest standards of food quality, customer service and kitchen presentation.
The successful candidate will have experience of managing a catering operation and team, together with a strong understanding of food safety legislation, HACCP, COSHH and allergen management. Excellent organisational, communication and leadership skills are essential, along with a commitment to promoting healthy eating and sustainability.
A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is essential. The successful candidate will be expected to adhere to all school safeguarding and child protection policies.
Duties include:
- Lead and manage the day-to-day delivery of the School’s catering service, including lunches, match teas, hospitality and special events.
- Plan and develop nutritious, appealing and cost-effective menus, promoting healthy eating across the School community.
- Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation and customer service, ensuring an excellent dining experience for all users.
- Lead, motivate and develop the catering team, overseeing recruitment, training, performance management and staff wellbeing.
- Manage staffing resources effectively, including rota planning and ensuring appropriate staffing levels to meet operational needs.
- Ensure full compliance with food safety, hygiene, health and safety legislation, including HACCP, COSHH, allergen management and safeguarding requirements.
- Maintain accurate compliance records and inspection-ready facilities, promoting a culture of safety, hygiene and best practice.
- Manage the catering budget, stock control and procurement processes, ensuring value for money and effective cost management.
- Build positive relationships with pupils, staff, parents and visitors, responding professionally to feedback and working collaboratively across the School.
- Oversee catering facilities, equipment and sustainability initiatives, ensuring a clean, safe, organised environment while minimising waste and supporting environmental objectives.
Essential Qualifications and Experience
- Professional catering or chef qualification (e.g. NVQ, City & Guilds or equivalent).
- Experience of managing a catering operation.
- Experience of leading, supervising and developing staff.
- Experience of menu planning and food production within a high-volume environment.
- Experience of managing budgets, stock control and purchasing.
- Sound understanding of food safety legislation, HACCP and COSHH requirements.
- Experience of allergen management and compliance procedures.
This role is ideal for a dedicated culinary professional eager to lead a vibrant catering operation while ensuring exceptional quality and customer satisfaction.
Please download the job description and application form from our website: https://www.st-johns.org.uk/about-us/staff-vacancies/
For further information, please contact the Bursar ([email protected]).
Applications should reach the school as soon as possible to be considered.
Pay: £34,500.00-£39,230.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
