Chef Manager - Leicester

Compass Group; England; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering company in Leicester is seeking a Chef Manager to oversee the catering operations. The ideal candidate will have experience in managing teams, ensuring compliance with food safety, and maintaining high service standards. This role offers opportunities for mentorship and skill development within a supportive environment. Competitive salary and site benefits are included.

Benefits

Free parking

Free meals on shift

Uniform provided

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Chef Manager or Head Chef with strong operational experience.
• A passion for fresh food, seasonal ingredients, and high-quality service delivery.
• Excellent communication and people management skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the full catering operation.
• Lead, develop and motivate your team to deliver excellent service.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and health & safety standards.

Skills

Operational experience

Leadership skills

Client relationship management

Financial acumen

Communication skills

Job description

Overview

Chef Manager – Leicester

Salary: Up to £34,950 per annum (DOE)

Working Pattern: 5 days over 7, on a rota basis

We’re looking for a Chef Manager who can do more than cook. This is a role for a hands-on leader who’s as confident at the stove as they are in a client meeting, someone who understands how to run a business, manage a team, and deliver food that delights.

As the heartbeat of the site, you’ll oversee every aspect of the catering operation, from menu planning and team leadership to client relationships, budgets, compliance, and service delivery. You’ll cook with passion, lead with purpose, and run the outlet like it’s your own.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Oversee the full catering operation from food to finance to front of house.
• Services include breakfast, lunch, dinner, vending, hospitality and retail.
• Lead, develop and motivate your team to deliver excellent service every day.
• Managing food costs, margins, waste and labour with commercial precision.
• Build strong relationships with our clients and guests, understanding their needs, exceeding expectations and delivering service with an impact.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, health & safety and company standards at all times.
• Drive consistency and quality across the kitchen and wider catering operation.

What you’ll bring to the table

• Proven experience as a Chef Manager or Head Chef with strong operational experience.
• A passion for fresh food, seasonal ingredients, and high-quality service delivery.
• Great communication and leadership skills—you inspire others with your energy.
• A strong sense of ownership and ability to manage client relationships.
• Strong financial acumen — you understand P&L, cost control, and business KPIs.
• Excellent communication and people management skills — you build trust, lead by example, and bring out the best in your team.

Hungry for more?

We also offer exciting culinary pathways for team members who want to level up. With real-time mentoring, hands-on experience, and the chance to earn recognised qualifications, it’s a delicious way to grow your skills while doing what you love.

Interview Process

• 1st Stage - Microsoft Teams Video Interview
• 2nd Stage - On-site interview and trade test

Site Benefits

• Free parking
• Free meals on shift
• Uniform provided

For more information about careers at Eurest and our benefits please visit: Careers at Eurest

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!