Cook Manager

HCL; Cambridgeshire and Peterborough; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 17,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Joining bonus

Uniform provided

Refer a Friend bonus

Career progression

Vivup discounts

Wellbeing support

DBS paid by employer

Job summary

HCL is seeking a Cook Manager based at Holywell Primary School to lead day-to-day kitchen operations, prepare and deliver fresh, nutritious meals, and manage stock, ordering and budget responsibilities. You will ensure compliance with food safety, health and safety regulations and maintain HACCP records during term-time hours.

Join us to develop a high-performing team, monitor allergen practices, and deliver an excellent dining experience, with uniform provided and DBS disclosure paid by HCL.

Qualifications

• Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate is required.
• NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable.
• Experience leading a catering team in a school setting is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the day-to-day kitchen operations.
• Prepare and deliver fresh, nutritious meals for pupils.
• 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.
• Maintain records (HACCP, temperature checks, audits).
• Inspiring and developing your team to grow and thrive.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Stock control

Food safety

Allergen awareness

Planning & time management

Team development

HACCP knowledge

Education

Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate

NVQ Level 2/3 desirable

Job description

Cook Manager based at Holywell Primary School 27.5hpw

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.

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

• Committed to safeguarding children and young people
• Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate (required)
• NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable
• Passionate about delivering fresh, nutritious meals
• 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

Why join us?

Joining Bonus:

£1000! (T&Cs apply)

Salary:

£13.22 per hour (£15,996 per annum)

Hours:

27.5 hours per week - No Weekends, No Late Nights

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

Exclusive 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

If you're passionate, driven and ready to grow, we'd love to hear from you.