Chef

Holroyd Howe; Gerrards Cross; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading contract catering service is looking for enthusiastic and committed Chefs to join the kitchen team at St Mary's School in Gerrards Cross, England. The role includes preparing high-quality food, supporting daily service, and ensuring food safety standards are met. Ideal candidates will have relevant experience and strong leadership skills. Join an organization that values work-life balance, offers career progression, and provides various benefits, including paid volunteering days and enhanced maternity leave.

Benefits

Paid volunteering days

Grandparent leave

Enhanced maternity leave

Bespoke training opportunities

Career progression

Pension & life insurance

Discounts via Perkbox

Free meals while at work

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Chef Manager or similar role within contract catering, ideally the Independent Education sector.
• Strong kitchen management and leadership skills.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist with menu planning, food orders, stock control, and cost management.
• Deliver excellent customer service and maintain high standards of food quality and presentation.
• Work collaboratively with the kitchen team.

Skills

Kitchen management

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Food safety standards knowledge

Education

Experience in contract catering

Job description

Overview

We're looking for enthusiastic and committed Chefs at all levels to join our kitchen team. You'll be involved in:

• Preparing and delivering fresh, high-quality food
• Supporting daily service and special events
• Maintaining excellent food safety and hygiene standards
• Working as part of a supportive, professional team
• Helping create a positive dining experience for pupils and staff
• Supporting the preparation, cooking, and presentation of food in line with company and client standards

Responsibilities

• Assist with menu planning, food orders, stock control, and cost management
• Ensure smooth day-to-day running of the kitchen
• Deliver excellent customer service and maintain high standards of food quality and presentation
• Work collaboratively with the kitchen team, supporting training, motivation, and development
• Maintain safeguarding requirements and act as a positive ambassador for Holroyd Howe
• Support the Chef Manager as required, including deputising when necessary

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Chef Manager or similar role within contract catering, ideally the Independent Education sector
• Strong kitchen management and leadership skills
• Passionate about using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create balanced, appealing menus
• Excellent organisational and communication skills
• Knowledge of food safety standards, allergen management, and sustainability best practices

About Holroyd Howe

Holroyd Howe is one of the UK's leading contract caterers, specialising exclusively in independent schools and colleges. We pride ourselves on creating innovative, nutritious, and exciting food tailored to children of all ages. Our mission is simple: to invest in our people. We provide the training, support, and opportunities you need to grow your career while enjoying a rewarding role in an education setting.

Why Join Us?

Are you a passionate chef looking for a better work-life balance without compromising on quality or creativity? Join Holroyd Howe at St Mary's School, where fresh food, people development, and wellbeing are at the heart of everything we do.

Benefits

• 3 paid volunteering days to support causes close to your heart
• 3 days\' grandparent leave for special family moments
• 24 weeks enhanced maternity leave
• Pro-rated holiday pay
• Bespoke training & development opportunities
• Career progression & HIT Apprenticeships (all experience levels)
• Pension & life insurance
• Discounts on shopping, cinema & holidays via Perkbox
• Wellbeing hub & employee assistance programme
• Free meals while at work