Chef Manager - Luton

14forty; Luton; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Compass Group UK&I in Luton is seeking a Chef Manager to lead the catering operation end-to-end, from menu planning and team leadership to client relationships and service delivery.

This hands-on role requires strong leadership, financial acumen, and a passion for fresh food. You’ll manage budgets, compliance, and KPI performance while inspiring your team to deliver outstanding dining experiences for clients and guests.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Chef Manager with strong operational experience.
• Passion for fresh food and high-quality service.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Ability to manage budgets, costs and KPIs.
• Ownership mindset and client relationships.

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.
• Managing food costs, margins, waste and labour with commercial precision.
• Build strong relationships with our clients and guests; understand needs and exceed expectations.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, health & safety and company standards at all times.
• Drive consistency and quality across the kitchen and wider catering operation.

Skills

Team leadership

Food safety

Client relations

Cost control

Communication

Job description

Chef Manager

Salary: Up to £30,000 per annum, depending on experience

Location: Luton

Contract: 40 hours, 7 day operation

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.
• 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 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.

If you’re a driven and passionate chef eager to make an impact, we’d love to hear from you! Take the next step in your culinary career.

Job Reference: com/0309/45364001/52831197/SU

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!