Catering Manager – New Site Launch & Fresh Food Lead

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services; Salterforth; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Contributory pension scheme

Career development programmes

Digital GP access

Exclusive travel discounts

Discounts on groceries and cinema

Cash rewards on spending

Wellness and mindfulness classes

Discounts for friends and family

Job summary

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services is recruiting a Chef Manager at Rolls-Royce Barnoldswick. You will mobilise a new catering offer, lead a small team, and ensure high standards of food and service for 300-400 colleagues on site.

The role is hands-on with strong leadership and organisational requirements, plus management of food costs, stock, and compliance. Monday to Friday, 7:00am–3:00pm in a modern workplace.

Qualifications

• Leadership experience in managing and developing teams
• Strong organisational and time-management skills
• Experience managing food costs, budgets, stock control and wastage
• Hands-on management style with passion for great food and service
• Willingness to travel to site consistently

Responsibilities

• Leading the successful mobilisation and ongoing management of the catering operation
• Preparing and delivering a fresh food offer, including sandwiches, salads, and lunch menu items
• Managing the daily operation and service delivery to meet client expectations
• Leading, motivating, and developing a team of three colleagues
• Managing food ordering, stock control, inventory, and supplier relationships
• Monitoring food costs and managing budgets in line with financial targets
• Overseeing the operation of smart vending solutions and ensuring product availability
• Maintaining excellent standards of food presentation, quality, and customer service
• Completing all required bookwork, reporting, audits, and compliance documentation
• Ensuring full compliance with Food Safety, Health & Safety, and company procedures
• Building strong relationships with the client and acting as the key on-site catering contact

Job description

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services is recruiting a Chef Manager at Rolls-Royce Barnoldswick. You will mobilise a new catering offer, lead a small team, and ensure high standards of food and service for 300-400 colleagues on site.

The role is hands-on with strong leadership and organisational requirements, plus management of food costs, stock, and compliance. Monday to Friday, 7:00am–3:00pm in a modern workplace.