Catering Manager

Teaching Vacancies; Manchester; On-site; GBP 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A school catering service in Manchester is seeking an experienced Catering Manager to oversee an efficient and customer-focused catering operation. The role involves leading a team, ensuring compliance with health regulations, and managing quality service delivery to scholars and staff. Ideal candidates should have relevant food preparation qualifications and strong management skills. This permanent position offers a starting salary of £24,998 (full-time equivalent £29,064) for 35 hours per week, term-time only with additional INSET days.

Qualifications

• Experience in managing a high-volume catering service prioritizing quality and detail.
• Strong people-management skills with the ability to lead a diverse team.
• Commitment to safeguarding and equality.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of an efficient catering service to staff and visitors.
• Ensure compliance with food hygiene and health & safety regulations.
• Manage financial tasks such as cash reconciliation and ordering.

Skills

Management of high-volume catering service

Strong communication skills

Food safety knowledge

Excellent literacy and numeracy

Team leadership and development

Education

NVQ Level 2 in Food Preparation and Cooking

Foundation Food Hygiene Certificate

Job description

About the role

We are seeking a committed and experienced Catering Manager to lead the delivery of an outstanding, efficient and customer‑focused catering service at MEA Central. This is a Grade 5, permanent post working 35 hours per week, term‑time only plus 5 INSET days. The starting salary is £24,998, full‑time equivalent £29,064.

Key responsibilities

• Lead a quality, cost‑effective catering service in line with agreed SLAs, health regulations and Trust policies.
• Adhere to pre‑planned menus that meet nutritional standards and customer expectations.
• Manage financial tasks, including cash reconciliation, ordering and completing returns in line with Trust financial procedures.
• Line‑manage the catering team, including training, development, attendance, performance management and payroll returns.
• Deliver a courteous, responsive and inclusive service to scholars, staff and visitors.
• Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, COSHH and health & safety regulations.
• Play an active role in service improvements, trialling new menu ideas and seeking feedback.
• Support the Trust’s values and safeguarding responsibilities.

What we’re looking for

• NVQ Level 2 (or working towards) in Food Preparation and Cooking, plus a Foundation Food Hygiene Certificate.
• Operational experience managing a high‑volume catering service where quality, service and detail are prioritised.
• Strong people‑management skills and the ability to lead and develop a diverse team.
• Excellent literacy and numeracy skills for accurate administration and record‑keeping.
• Knowledge of food safety, health and safety and allergen regulations.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including accurate spoken English.
• A commitment to safeguarding, equality and professional development.

How to apply

Follow the online application process to be considered. Interviews will take place in person w/c 3rd November.

Equal opportunities statement: Prospere Learning Trust values diversity and welcomes applications from all candidates, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital status, pregnancy, race religion, sex or sexual orientation.