Chef Manager - Norwich

Compass Group UK; Norwich; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Compass Group UK&I in Norwich seeks a hands-on Chef Manager to oversee every aspect of the catering operation, from menu planning to service delivery.

You will lead a team, manage food costs and budgets, ensure compliance with safety standards, and build strong client relationships to deliver exceptional guest experiences.

This role blends cooking excellence with business leadership, requiring strong communication and a passion for high-quality, consistent service.

Qualifications

• Experience as Chef Manager with strong operational background.
• Passion for fresh food and high-quality service.
• Strong leadership and communication abilities.
• Understanding of P&L and cost control.
• Ownership mindset and client relationship skills.

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, understanding their needs and exceeding 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

Kitchen leadership

Operational management

Food concepts

Communication skills

Financial acumen

Job description

Chef Manager

Salary:Up to £40,000 per annum, depending on experience
Location:Norwich
Working Pattern:This role is predominantly Monday to Friday. However, as the site operates seven days a week, flexibility is required, and you will be expected to work across all seven days in line with business needs.

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.

Services

• Bistro breakfast and lunch service 8am to 3pm
• Vending and Retail
• Hospitality

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.

Job Reference: com/1709/45077001/52833960/SU #14Forty

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!