Culinary Lead & Kitchen Operations Manager

White Oaks; Edgware; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Contributory pension scheme

Career development — Career Pathways &

Healthcare benefits

Travel discounts

Cinema discounts

Cashback rewards

Wellbeing and fitness classes

Employee discounts

Job summary

White Oaks is seeking a hands-on Chef Manager to lead our catering team at Henry NiHill House, Edgeware. The role oversees daily kitchen operations, event catering and a culture of high-quality, seasonal food with a focus on safety and customer satisfaction.

The successful candidate will manage a skilled kitchen team, plan menus, control stock and budgets, and ensure compliance with food hygiene standards. Weekend and early/late shifts are involved.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Head Chef, Chef Manager or in a similar leadership role.
• Strong team management and people development skills
• Experience working in a fast-paced catering environment
• Excellent organisational and communication skills
• A passion for producing high-quality, seasonal food
• A proactive, hands-on approach with the ability to lead by example
• Flexibility to work a mixture of early and late shifts, including weekends

Responsibilities

• Leading, motivating and developing a talented kitchen team
• Planning, preparing and presenting fresh, nutritious meals
• Managing catering for both daily services and special events
• Overseeing food ordering, stock control and budget management
• Minimising food waste and driving efficiency across the operation
• Ensuring full compliance with food hygiene, health and safety standards
• Creating effective rotas and supporting smooth day-to-day operations
• Promoting a culture of teamwork, pride and continuous improvement

Skills

Team leadership

People development

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Food safety knowledge

Hands-on leadership

Education

NVQ or City & Guilds (desirable)

Job description

White Oaks is seeking a hands-on Chef Manager to lead our catering team at Henry NiHill House, Edgeware. The role oversees daily kitchen operations, event catering and a culture of high-quality, seasonal food with a focus on safety and customer satisfaction.

The successful candidate will manage a skilled kitchen team, plan menus, control stock and budgets, and ensure compliance with food hygiene standards. Weekend and early/late shifts are involved.