Culinary Lead - School Catering (Hiring Immediately)

JR United Kingdom; London; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading catering provider in the education sector is seeking a Culinary Lead to deliver exceptional food experiences. This part-time position involves overseeing culinary operations, ensuring high-quality food delivery, and creating a positive kitchen environment. Ideal candidates will have experience as a Head Chef and relevant culinary qualifications.

Qualifications

• Experience as a Head Chef or similar role.
• Holds relevant culinary qualifications.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage a kitchen.

Responsibilities

• Preparing high-quality, delicious food.
• Managing food ordering and stock control.
• Ensuring compliance with hygiene standards.

Skills

Communication

Team Leadership

Food Safety

Creativity

Reliability

Education

City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or NVQ equivalent

Job description

Job Title: Culinary Lead - School Catering (Immediate Hire), London

Client: Compass Group

Location: London, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Details

We are recruiting an ambitious Head Chef to create exceptional food experiences for Chartwells on a part-time basis, contracted for 30 hours per week. This role involves leading culinary operations, ensuring high-quality food delivery, and maintaining a positive kitchen environment.

Shift Pattern: Other (please specify if known)

Note: This role is contracted for 5 weeks per year.

Key Responsibilities

• Preparing high-quality, delicious food that delights clients and customers
• Identifying opportunities to improve food service
• Creating a positive, welcoming environment for the kitchen team
• Delivering tasty food concepts to customers
• Representing Compass Group UK&I and maintaining a positive brand image
• Managing food ordering, stock control, and waste reduction
• Overseeing kitchen hygiene and cleanliness standards
• Managing budgets and achieving financial targets
• Ensuring compliance with Food Handling & Hygiene standards
• Adhering to Health & Safety regulations

Ideal Candidate

• Holds a City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or NVQ equivalent
• Creates a positive work environment
• Excellent communicator and relationship builder
• Experience as a Head Chef or similar role
• Enthusiastic, motivated, and committed to excellence
• Decisive and proactive
• Ability to work under pressure
• Reliable and punctual
• Safety-conscious and passionate about food

About Us

Part of Compass Group UK&I, Chartwells is a leading provider of catering and support services in the education sector, serving nutritious meals across the UK. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all employees to share this commitment. Employment is subject to pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS disclosure and Children's Barred List check.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.