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Job Title: Chef Manager
Location:Twickenham, TW1
Salary: £35,000£38,000 per annum
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: 45 hours per week, 6:30 am 3:30 pm
Working Weeks: 42 weeks per year
We are seeking an experienced, committed Chef Manager to lead the catering service in a large secondary & sixth-form environment. You will oversee the preparation and service of nutritious, well-balanced meals to support a learning atmosphere that promotes excellence, diversity, and wellbeing. This is a full-time, term-time role designed to maintain high standards in food quality, safety, and service, while contributing to the wider school community.
Key ResponsibilitiesPlan, prepare, and deliver wholesome, varied breakfast and lunch menus that comply with school food standards and nutritional guidelines.
Manage and supervise all kitchen operations, ensuring timely preparation, attractive presentation, and quality of meals.
Lead, train, and inspire a catering team to consistently deliver excellent customer service and maintain high food safety, hygiene, and allergen compliance.
Monitor stock levels; order supplies; manage kitchen budget; maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure value and quality.
Ensure all food production and service areas are safe, clean, and compliant with Health & Safety, Food Hygiene, and allergen regulations.
Collaborate with school leadership, pastoral teams, and students to develop menus that reflect dietary needs, student preferences, and special events or themed days.
Maintain accurate documentation including health & safety logs, allergen information, and quality checks.
Drive continuous improvement in catering operations, including efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainability practices where appropriate.
You will be someone who:
Has significant experience managing catering operations in high-volume or educational settings (preferably secondary schools or sixth forms).
Holds relevant qualifications, such as Level 3 Food Safety and Health & Safety.
Is a strong leader and communicator, capable of managing and motivating teams to meet high standards under pressure.
Is organised, decisive, and proactive, with strong planning, stock control, and budgeting skills.
Demonstrates a passion for healthy, nutritious food and interest in contributing to student wellbeing and school culture.
Is adaptable, resilient, and able to maintain consistency and quality in a busy, dynamic environment.
A supportive, collaborative school environment with a strong emphasis on academic and personal development.
Term-time working pattern to allow for work/life balance.
Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
Recognition of high performance and contribution.
Employee wellbeing initiatives.
Pension scheme and staff benefits in line with school policies.
If you are ready to lead a dynamic catering department, ensure excellent service and nutrition for students, and grow professionally in an educational setting we would love to hear from you.
