Area Manager

Talent Hive; City Of London; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing contract catering company in London is seeking an experienced Area Manager to oversee multiple schools. The role involves managing finances, building relationships, and supporting menu development. Ideal candidates will have a background in education catering, strong commercial skills, and a passion for delivering quality food services. The position offers a competitive salary and a supportive company culture.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Term-time only work

Travel expenses covered

Supportive company culture

Qualifications

• Experience in education catering (primary/SEN).
• Ability to manage finances including sales and food costs.
• Ability to build relationships with clients and teams.

Responsibilities

• Oversee 12-15 schools in central and south London.
• Manage school finances and ensure high standards.
• Train and develop Chef Managers and teams.

Skills

Multi-site management experience

Passion for fresh food

Strong commercial skills

Excellent communication

Leadership abilities

Job description

Overview

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Area Manager - Education Catering
£36-£43K (40 weeks per year) Central & South London

The Company

A growing, owner-operated contract catering company with a reputation for delivering fresh, innovative food services to schools is looking for an experienced Area Manager to join their team.

The Role

The Area Operations Manager will oversee 12-15 schools (primaries and SEN) across central and south London, reporting to the Operations Director. This is a hands-on role focused on:

• Managing school finances (sales, food costs, labour)
• Building strong client, parent team and peer level relationships
• Supporting menu development and added-value initiatives
• Training and developing Chef Managers and teams
• Ensuring high standards of fresh food and service

This role does not involve board reporting, client contract negotiations, or annual budget setting

Ideal candidate

The ideal candidate will have:

• Multi-site management experience in education catering (primary/SEN)
• A passion for fresh food and quality service
• Strong commercial skills with experience managing tight margins
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities

Package & Benefits

• £36-£43K per annum (salary paid in 12 equal monthly instalments)
• Term-time only: 40 weeks per year, plus two weeks for inductions and admin
• Please note, 52-week option could be available for the right candidate
• Travel expenses paid from home (40p/mile or London public transport expensed)
• Monday-Friday, daytime hours, with occasional parent evenings (approx. 15 per year)
• Supportive and collaborative company culture

How to Apply

Experienced education multi-site candidates who are passionate about food and people development are encouraged to apply.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.