Chef Manager Onslow St Audreys School

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL); Hatfield; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 26,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Uniform provided

Refer a Friend bonus up to £500

VIVUP discounts

Job summary

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL) is seeking a Chef Manager to lead daily kitchen operations and deliver high-quality, nutritious meals for students and staff. The role focuses on excellence in service, safety, and teamwork within a school catering environment.

You will manage budgets, stock, and records while developing your team and ensuring compliance with HACCP and health and safety requirements. Term-time schedule applies with uniform provided and rewarding benefits."

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable.
• Strong leadership and team development abilities.
• Well-organised with planning and time management.
• Knowledge of food safety, allergens and school standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the day-to-day kitchen operations.
• Prepare and deliver fresh, nutritious meals.
• Oversee stock control, ordering and budget management.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene and health & safety regulations.
• Monitor food quality, presentation and portion control.
• Manage allergen awareness and cater for special dietary requirements.
• Build positive relationships with staff, students and the wider school community.
• Maintain accurate records (e.g. HACCP, temperature checks, audits).
• Inspire and develop your team, creating an environment where people grow and thrive.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Food safety

Allergen awareness

Team development

Education

NVQ Level 2/3 (desirable)

Job description

At HCL SAFEGUARDING IS OUR NUMBER ONE PRIORITY.

The safety of children and young people is at the heart of everything we do.

About us:

At HCL, we're more than just a caterer. We proudly serve over 16 million meals a year, delivering outstanding dining experiences across schools and the commercial sector.

As a Chef Manager, you will lead the preparation and service of fresh, nutritious meals, ensuring students and staff enjoy high-quality food and excellent service every day.

Let's talk about the role of a Chef Manager:

• Lead and manage the day-to-day kitchen operations
• Prepare, and deliver fresh, nutritious meals
• Oversee stock control, ordering, and budget management
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations
• Monitor food quality, presentation, and portion control
• Manage allergen awareness and cater for special dietary requirements
• Build positive relationships with staff, students, and the wider school community
• Maintain accurate records (e.g. HACCP, temperature checks, audits)
• Inspiring and developing your team, creating an environment where people grow and thrive

About the Ideal Chef Manager:

• Committed to safeguarding children and young people
• NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable
• An experienced leader who can motivate and develop a high-performing team
• Well-organised, with strong planning and time management skills
• Confident managing budgets, stock, and kitchen operations
• Knowledgeable in food safety, allergens, and school food standards
• Committed to maintaining high standards of hygiene and compliance
• Proactive, flexible, and able to work in a fast-paced environment
• Dedicated to providing an excellent dining experience every day

Salary: £15.85 per hour (£25,803 per annum)

Schedule: Term Time Only - Enjoy all School Holidays off

Uniform provided

Rewards: Spread the Word & Earn Up To £500 - Refer a Friend! (T&Cs apply)

Succeed with us: Career progression opportunities

Excusive discounts: via VIVUP for supermarkets, cinemas, retail, dining, hotels, and family activities

Wellbeing matters: Support through EAP & Financial Support via Stream

Safeguarding: Enhanced DBS Disclosure paid by HCL -

No Cost to You

Chef Manager career with HCL starts here.