Chef Manager

TN United Kingdom; Colchester; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in contract catering is seeking a dedicated Chef Manager to oversee a school catering facility. This role offers the chance to lead a passionate kitchen team, ensuring high-quality food and service while managing operational and financial responsibilities. Enjoy a balanced work-life with Monday to Friday hours during school terms, no late nights, and the opportunity for career development within a growing company. Join us in creating fantastic food experiences for children and making a real impact in the education sector.

Benefits

Career development opportunities

Training courses

No late nights

Work aligned with school terms

Qualifications

• Passionate about delivering exceptional food and service.
• Craft-based experience using fresh ingredients.

Responsibilities

• Leading and developing the kitchen team.
• Managing catering operations and costs.
• Ensuring consistent food and service standards.

Skills

Leadership

Food Safety Knowledge

Financial Management

Culinary Skills

Team Development

Education

OND or HND qualification

Job description

Aspens Services Ltd is a market leading contract catering company specialising in school food. By combining our understanding of the education sector and our knowledge of current food trends, we encourage creativity and excitement in our kitchens, enabling our teams to provide fantastic food experiences for children.

To support our growth, we are seeking an experienced Chef Manager to join our team.

The role:

As the Chef Manager, you will have full operational and financial responsibility for your school's catering facility, focusing on delivering high-quality food and service, and making this one of the best school catering offers in the area.

Your responsibilities will include:

1. Leading, developing, coaching, training, and motivating your kitchen team
2. Managing the catering operation, including stock, food, and labour costs
3. Ensuring consistent food and service standards for students and staff
4. Driving sales through promotions and value-added events
5. Controlling and improving costs
6. Maintaining company systems, procedures, and compliance with legislation
7. Conducting regular audits to ensure standards are met

About you:

We are looking for someone passionate about delivering exceptional food and service in schools, with the following skills and experience:

• OND or HND qualification (advantageous but not essential)
• Craft-based experience using fresh ingredients
• Knowledge of health and safety practices
• Financial understanding of gross profit management and sales targets
• Experience in a similar environment

Benefits:

Enjoy fantastic hours working Monday to Friday during school term time, with no late nights or work at Christmas, giving you more time with friends and family.

This role involves:

• 40 hours per week
• 39 weeks per year, aligned with school terms

Additional benefits include:

• Opportunities for career development within a fast-growing, ambitious company
• A dedicated Learning & Development team supporting your skills development, including apprenticeships and training courses

All staff are expected to share our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. An enhanced DBS check will be required.