Chef Manager

Compass Group PLC; Witham; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food services company is seeking a hands-on Chef Manager to oversee kitchen operations in Witham, UK. You will manage menu planning, team leadership, and financial performance while ensuring high standards of food safety and customer satisfaction. The ideal candidate has chef management experience and excellent leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Proven chef management experience with strong culinary skills.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.
• Strong financial and organizational awareness.

Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and deliver high-quality, balanced menus.
• Manage, motivate, and develop a team of 4.
• Oversee stock control, purchasing, and labor planning.
• Build relationships with clients and stakeholders.
• Deliver budgeted financial performance and minimize waste.

Skills

Culinary skills

Leadership

Communication

Financial management

Organizational skills

Customer service

Job description

Overview

As a hands-on Chef Manager, you will take full ownership of the day-to-day running of the unit. From menu planning and food preparation to team leadership and financial management, you\'ll ensure the kitchen operates smoothly, efficiently, and in line with Compass Group UK & Ireland standards. You will be the driving force in creating seasonal, nutritious, and appealing menus, while managing costs, compliance, and customer satisfaction.

Responsibilities

• Culinary Excellence: Plan, prepare, and deliver high-quality, balanced menus that meet client and customer expectations.
• Team Leadership: Manage, motivate, and develop a small team of 4, ensuring high engagement, training, and performance.
• Operational Oversight: Oversee stock control, purchasing, and labour planning while ensuring compliance with food safety, allergen management, and health & safety standards.
• Client & Customer Engagement: Build strong relationships with clients and stakeholders, responding to feedback and driving customer satisfaction.
• Financial & Commercial Management: Deliver budgeted financial performance across labour, stock, and GP%, minimising waste and identifying opportunities for growth.
• Requirements: Proven chef management experience with strong culinary skills and creativity.
• Skills & Qualities: Excellent leadership and communication skills - able to inspire and lead a small team.
• Financial & Operational Awareness: Strong financial and organisational awareness, with experience managing budgets, stock, and compliance.
• Service Focus: A passion for delivering great service and exceeding customer expectations.
• Personal Attributes: Adaptable, proactive, and hands-on, with a positive, can-do approach.

Company & Culture

Restaurant Associates provides brilliant hospitality through our food, drink and services. We work with our partners and collaborate with our clients to achieve great things together. Every day, our teams of passionate hospitality professionals strive for excellence in delivering employee dining and hospitality to some of the UK\'s leading workplace as well as inspiring exceptional experiences in iconic cultural and heritage destinations. Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!