Area School Kitchen Leader - Mon-Fri Training

Sodexo; Stourbridge; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Wellbeing support platform

Employee Assistance Programme

Sodexo Discounts Scheme

Retirement Plan

Cycle to Work

Job summary

Sodexo is seeking an Area Chef Manager to oversee school catering operations across the Stourbridge and Halesowen area of the West Midlands. You will lead multiple school teams, drive quality, service and food safety, and monitor financial performance to ensure excellent pupil, staff and visitor experiences.

You will work hands-on with teams to identify improvements, provide operational support, and maintain positive relationships with schools, staff and stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Experience cooking for large groups (100–1300 students).
• Previous staff supervision or line management experience.
• Experience working with fresh produce and ingredients.
• Awareness of health and safety procedures and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end catering operations across multiple schools.
• Develop and mentor kitchen teams; provide training and guidance.
• Control labour, food and stock costs to protect margins.
• Ensure consistent food and service standards across sites.
• Create and develop menus aligned with pupil needs and budgets.
• Conduct routine audits to ensure compliance with standards.

Skills

Large scale cooking

Staff supervision

Food safety

Leadership

Time management

Education

NVQ Level 2

Level 2 Food Safety Certificate

Job description

Sodexo is seeking an Area Chef Manager to oversee school catering operations across the Stourbridge and Halesowen area of the West Midlands. You will lead multiple school teams, drive quality, service and food safety, and monitor financial performance to ensure excellent pupil, staff and visitor experiences.

You will work hands-on with teams to identify improvements, provide operational support, and maintain positive relationships with schools, staff and stakeholders.