Package Description
Job Introduction
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Cook Manager, School Chef or Catering Manager looking for a better work-life balance whilst still leading a busy and rewarding kitchen operation.
At Sodexo, we know school meals are more than just food — they help students focus, learn and thrive throughout the day. We’re looking for a strong kitchen leader who can confidently run a high-volume school catering operation whilst creating a positive and supportive environment for both students and staff.
Based at Grey Court School in Richmond, you’ll lead the day-to-day catering operation, managing food production, service standards, compliance, ordering, stock control and the kitchen team.
This role would suit someone who enjoys being hands-on, organised and part of a busy kitchen where no two days are the same.
What Your Day-Day Could Look Like:
This is a busy, fast-paced environment, so we’re looking for someone who can confidently lead from the front whilst staying calm under pressure.
What We're Looking For:
We’re looking for someone with strong large-scale catering experience who is confident managing both people and kitchen operations.
Essential:
-
Experience cooking for high volumes (100–1300 covers)
-
Previous school catering, contract catering or large-scale catering experience
-
Experience supervising or managing a kitchen team
-
Strong understanding of food safety and kitchen compliance
-
Experience managing stock, ordering and food costs
-
Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced kitchen
-
Positive attitude with strong leadership skills
-
NVQ Level 2 (or equivalent)
-
Level 2 Food Safety Certificate
Desirable:
-
Previous Cook Manager experience within education catering
-
Experience increasing meal uptake and customer engagement
-
Knowledge of allergen management and school food standards
Why Join Sodexo:
Working with Sodexo is more than a job — it’s a chance to be part of something greater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you, where you can grow, develop and make a real difference every day.
You’ll also benefit from:
-
School-friendly hours and excellent work-life balance
-
Public holidays and Christmas off
-
Full uniform provided
-
Access to wellbeing and mental health support
-
Employee Assistance Programme
-
Discounts, cashback and financial wellbeing support
-
Pension scheme
-
Ongoing learning and development opportunities
-
Cycle to Work Scheme
-
Opportunities to progress within Sodexo
Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today!
**Sodexo and our Clients are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Certain roles will require applicants to undergo screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (UK) and / or Disclosure Scotland (Scotland)**
- Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we are in receipt of a high number of application
About The Company
About Sodexo
At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better every day for everyone to build a better life for all. As the global leader in services that improve the Quality of Life, we operate in 55 countries, serving over 100 million consumers each day through our unique combination of On-Site Food and FM Services, Benefits & Rewards Services and Personal & Home Services.
We are committed to being an inclusive employer. We are a forces friendly employer. We welcome and encourage applications from people with a diverse variety of experiences, backgrounds and identities. We encourage our employees to get involved with our Employee Networks such as Pride, Sodexo Parents & Carers, Sodexo Disability, Ability network, So Together, Generations and Origins.
We’re a Disability Confident Leader employer. We’re committed to changing attitudes towards disability, and making sure disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations. We run a Disability Confident interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria for the job.
Click here to read more about what we do to promote an inclusive culture.
