Cook Manager Arnett Hills

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL); Rickmansworth; On-site; GBP 16,000 - 22,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Uniform provided

Refer a Friend bonus

VIVUP discounts

Wellbeing program

DBS disclosure paid by employer

Job summary

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL) is seeking a hands-on Cook Manager to lead the school kitchen day-to-day, deliver nutritious meals, and drive quality and service.

You will manage stock, budgets, records (HACCP, temperature checks, audits) and ensure food safety, allergens, and school standards. Term-time schedule and uniform provided, with staff development and career progression.

Qualifications

• Committed to safeguarding children and young people.
• NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable.
• Experience as a 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 high standards of hygiene and compliance.
• Proactive, flexible and able to work in a fast-paced environment.

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).
• Inspiring and developing your team, creating an environment where people grow and thrive.

Skills

Team leadership

Budget management

Food safety

Allergen awareness

Stock control

Time management

Catering IT systems

Education

NVQ Level 2/3 (desirable)

Tools

Catering IT systems

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

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