Culinary Manager

SmartRecruiters, Inc.; Preston; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Cost-price staff meals

Free parking

On-site gym

Pension scheme

Training & development

Career progression

Employee benefits & discounts

Online GP access & EAP

Job summary

Aramark UK is seeking an experienced Culinary Manager to lead the catering operation at Weeton Barracks, Preston. You will oversee multiple dining facilities, ensure top quality food production and service, and drive performance across the culinary team.

The role offers a compelling career path, with training, development opportunities, and a supportive, inclusive environment. On-site perks include parking, gym access, and a uniform.

Qualifications

• Experience leading a culinary operation in a large-scale, multi-site catering environment.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, allergen management, and health and safety legislation.

Responsibilities

• Oversee catering operations across multiple dining facilities.
• Ensure high standards of food production, presentation and service.
• Manage stock, ordering, supplier relationships and food costs.
• Lead, develop and motivate the culinary team to perform.
• Ensure compliance with safety, hygiene and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Leadership

People management

Food safety

Allergen management

Menu planning

Budget control

Job description

Job Description

We are currently recruiting for an experienced and motivated Culinary Manager to lead the catering operation at Weeton Barracks, Preston. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate food professional with strong leadership skills to oversee multiple dining facilities whilst maintaining exceptional food quality, service standards, and team performance.

• Full-time position, working 5 days over 7, regular and predictable working pattern
• Cost-price staff meals
• Free on-site parking
• Access to the on-site gym
• Excellent work-life balance
• Free uniform provided
• Company pension scheme
• Access to employee benefits and discount schemes
• Online GP access and Employee Assistance Programme
• Ongoing training and professional development
• Excellent career progression opportunities within Aramark
• A supportive and inclusive working environment

What you'll be doing

• Overseeing the full catering operation across Weeton Barracks, including the Officers' Mess, Warrant Officers' & Sergeants' Mess, and Junior Ranks Hub
• Taking overall responsibility for food production, quality, presentation, and menu delivery
• Ensuring all meals are prepared and served to the highest standards
• Managing food safety compliance, allergen management, and kitchen hygiene standards
• Leading, motivating, and developing the culinary team to achieve operational excellence
• Managing stock control, ordering processes, and supplier relationships
• Controlling food costs and monitoring budgets to maximise efficiency
• Implementing waste reduction initiatives and ensuring effective waste management practices
• Maintaining high standards of cleanliness and organisation throughout kitchen operations
• Monitoring performance and identifying opportunities to improve service delivery
• Ensuring compliance with all company, client, and legislative requirements

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a Culinary Manager, Head Chef, Kitchen Manager, or similar leadership role
• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Excellent knowledge of food safety, allergen management, and health and safety legislation
• Strong kitchen organisation and operational management capabilities
• Experience with menu planning and food production management
• Proven ability to manage stock control, ordering processes, and food cost budgets
• Ability to develop, coach, and support team members
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to maintain high standards within a busy operational environment
• A passion for delivering outstanding food and customer service

Additional Information

• Successful candidates will be required to complete standard military vetting

At Aramark UK, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued and empowered to thrive.

As a proud Disability Confident Employer, we actively encourage applications from individuals of all abilities and are dedicated to supporting employees with disabilities throughout their career journey.

We are an Armed Forces Friendly organisation and proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant. We welcome applications from veterans, service leavers, cadet forces adult volunteers, reservists and military families.

We ensure our recruitment process is accessible, and reasonable adjustments are available at every stage, from application to interview and employment. If you require any adjustments or have any questions, please reach out to our recruitment team - [e-mail]

Any offer of employment for this role will be conditional upon the successful completion and maintenance of the required level of security clearance. Applicants must meet the relevant eligibility and residency requirements applicable to the clearance level associated with the role.

Join us in fostering a workplace where everyone can achieve their full potential.

All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.