Chef Manager

Aspens Services; Oxford; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading contract catering company is searching for a passionate Chef Manager in Oxford. You will manage all operations and financial aspects of the school catering facility, focusing on delivering exceptional food and service. The role requires a strong leader with culinary skills and team management experience. Enjoy a great work-life balance with no late nights and a competitive rate of £14 per hour, working only during school term time.

Benefits

30 hours per week

38.6 weeks per year off

Career growth opportunities

Training courses available

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of Gross Profit management.
• Proven experience in managing and inspiring a kitchen team.
• Excellent health and safety knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Manage and improve controllable costs including stock and labour.
• Lead and inspire kitchen team to deliver high-quality service.
• Oversee menu development and drive sales through promotions.
• Guarantee standards and legislation compliance via audits.

Skills

Gross Profit management

Culinary skills

Team management

Health and safety knowledge

Education

OND/HND or equivalent experience

Job description

Summary

Aspens Services is a market-leading contract caterer specialising in school food. We don't just serve meals‑we create fantastic food experiences that fuel young minds! By blending deep knowledge of the education sector with the latest food trends, we encourage creativity and excitement in every kitchen.

Our commitment to quality care for both clients and children has fueled rapid growth, and we are looking for passionate people like you to join our journey.

The role

We're seeking an ambitious Chef Manager, ready to take full operational and financial responsibility for your school's catering facility! This role goes beyond the kitchen – it requires a visionary leader with the flair and originality to consistently deliver the highest quality food and service, elevating the dining experience and establishing this as one of the best school catering offers in the region!

Your responsibilities will include

Financial Control: Managing and improving all controllable costs, including stock, food and labour.

Team Leadership: Lead, coach, train and inspire your kitchen team to deliver excellence every day.

Culinary Innovation: Oversee menu development and drive sales through exciting monthly promotions and added‑value events.

Quality Assurance: Guarantee all standards, systems and essential legislation are met through regular audits and proactive management.

About you

We're looking for a passionate leader who is ready to drive excellence and profitability. If you're hungry for a role where you can fully own the operation, you'll need:

• A strong understanding of Gross Profit (GP) management and the strategic know‑how to smash sales targets.
• Fantastic craft skills with a genuine commitment to using fresh ingredients to deliver exceptional quality food.
• Proven experience in line management – you know how to coach, motivate, and inspire to develop a high‑performing team.
• Excellent knowledge of health and safety practices.
• A qualification like OND/HND is a bonus, but your on‑the‑job experience is what we're truly after.

Why Join the Aspens Family?

Great Work‑Life Balance

You'll work Monday to Friday during school term time – that means no late nights, no weekends and no working at Christmas!

• 30 hours per week
• 38.6 weeks per year – what will you do with all that time off?
• £14 per hour

Career Growth and Development

Join a fast‑growing, ambitious company. We have no ceiling in terms of where you can take your career in catering.

Benefit from a dedicated Learning & Development team offering apprenticeship and training courses to help you constantly develop your skills.

Ready to start a rewarding career with amazing hours? Apply today!

Please note

All staff must share our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children/young people. The company will seek an enhanced DBS disclosure.