Chef Manager - Leicestershire

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

Job summary

A leading catering company in the UK is seeking a Chef Manager to oversee the entire catering operation from food planning to team leadership. The ideal candidate will have proven experience as a Chef Manager or Head Chef and possess strong operational skills and financial acumen. You'll manage client relationships and ensure compliance with food safety standards while delivering exceptional service. This role offers opportunities for culinary development and mentoring within a supportive environment.

Benefits

Culinary development opportunities

Real-time mentoring

Chance to earn recognized qualifications

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.
• Great communication and leadership skills.
• Strong sense of ownership and ability to manage client relationships.
• Strong financial acumen including understanding P&L and cost control.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the full catering operation from food to finance to front of house.
• Lead, develop and motivate your team to deliver excellent service.
• Manage food costs, margins, waste and labor efficiently.
• Build strong relationships with clients and guests.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and company standards.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Financial acumen

Food safety compliance

Job description

We're looking for a Chef Manager who can do more than cook. This is a role for a hands‑on leader who is as confident at the stove as at 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.
• 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.

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.
• 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.