Cook Manager

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL); Hitchin; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 18,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Refer a Friend bonus up to £500

Career progression opportunities

Exclusive discounts via VIVUP

Wellbeing support (EAP)

Job summary

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL) is seeking a proactive Cook Manager for Whitehill Junior School in Hitchin. You will lead the kitchen team, prepare nutritious meals, manage stock and budgets, and ensure compliance with food safety and school standards.

The role is term-time only with a salary of £13.76 per hour (£16,654 per year). You’ll drive high-quality dining experiences while safeguarding pupils and developing your team in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2/3 (desirable) and evidence of kitchen leadership.
• Experience leading a team in a school or commercial kitchen.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage 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.
• Maintain records (HACCP, temperatures, audits).

Skills

Team leadership

Budget management

Food safety

HACCP

Allergen awareness

IT systems

Education

NVQ Level 2/3

Tools

Kitchen IT systems

Job description

Cook Manager based at Whitehill Junior School 27.5 Hours

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

Cook Manager, you won't just run a kitchen - you'll be hands on leading the team, shaping the culture and setting the standard for quality and service that your school will depend on every day.

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
• 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
• Proficient in IT systems used within catering and kitchen operations

Salary: £13.76 per hour (£16,654 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

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.