Chef Manager: Lead Kitchen, Team & Client Partnerships

Compass Group UK; Ashbourne CP; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Compass Group UK&I is seeking a hands-on Chef Manager in Ashbourne to lead the catering operation. You’ll oversee menu planning, team leadership, client relationships and service delivery, delivering food that delights and drives value for the client.

You’ll balance cooking passions with business demands, managing costs, margins, waste and labour with commercial precision while upholding food safety and company standards across every service.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Chef Manager or Head Chef with strong operational experience.
• Passion for fresh food and high-quality service.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• Strong ownership and ability to manage client relationships.
• Financial acumen: P&L, cost control and KPIs.
• People management and team development.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Team leadership

Cost control

P&L awareness

Client relationships

Food safety

Communication

Job description

Compass Group UK&I is seeking a hands-on Chef Manager in Ashbourne to lead the catering operation. You’ll oversee menu planning, team leadership, client relationships and service delivery, delivering food that delights and drives value for the client.

You’ll balance cooking passions with business demands, managing costs, margins, waste and labour with commercial precision while upholding food safety and company standards across every service.