Chef Manager

Aspens Services; Swindon; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading contract caterer in Swindon is seeking a Chef Manager to oversee the school's catering facility. This role requires a visionary leader who can manage financial controls, lead a high-performing kitchen team, and innovate menus to enhance the dining experience. With a focus on quality and safety, candidates should demonstrate strong Gross Profit management and culinary skills. The position offers a great work-life balance with 34 hours per week during term times and no late nights or weekends.

Benefits

Great work-life balance

Career growth opportunities

Apprenticeship and training courses

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of Gross Profit (GP) management.
• Proven experience in line management.
• Excellent knowledge of health and safety practices.

Responsibilities

• Manage and improve all controllable costs.
• Lead, coach, train and inspire the kitchen team.
• Oversee menu development and drive sales.
• Guarantee standards and legislation through audits.

Skills

Leadership

Culinary Skills

Gross Profit Management

Health and Safety Knowledge

Education

OND/HND or relevant experience

Job description

About us

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

• 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!
• 34 hours per week
• 39 weeks per year – what will you do with all that time off?
• £14.50 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.