Chef Manager - Lead Kitchen & Catering Ops

Compass Group UK; Spennymoor; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Compass Group UK is seeking a hands-on Chef Manager for Spennymoor site, leading a catering operation and delivering food that delights clients and guests.

You will manage menu planning, lead a team, monitor costs and compliance, drive service quality across shifts, build strong client relationships, and develop staff. This is a senior operational role requiring leadership and financial acumen, with a Monday to Friday pattern.

Qualifications

• Experience as Head Chef or Chef Manager with strong operations.
• Passion for fresh food and high-quality service.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• Strong ownership and ability to manage client relationships.
• Understanding of P&L, cost control and KPIs.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the full catering operation from food to finance to front of house.
• Lead, develop and motivate your team to deliver excellent service.
• Managing food costs, margins, waste and labour with commercial precision.
• Build strong relationships with clients and guests.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, health & safety and company standards.
• Drive consistency and quality across the kitchen and wider operation.

Skills

Head Chef experience

Operational leadership

Food cost control

Client relationship

P&L knowledge

Job description

Compass Group UK is seeking a hands-on Chef Manager for Spennymoor site, leading a catering operation and delivering food that delights clients and guests.

You will manage menu planning, lead a team, monitor costs and compliance, drive service quality across shifts, build strong client relationships, and develop staff. This is a senior operational role requiring leadership and financial acumen, with a Monday to Friday pattern.