Development Chef

JR United Kingdom; London; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in the catering sector is seeking a Development Chef to shape their food identity in the education sector. This role involves supporting new openings, refreshing existing offers, and training teams to uphold high standards. Flexibility to travel nationwide is essential. The company values creativity and is committed to providing delicious, healthy meals that enhance students' learning experiences. Join a team that prioritizes innovation and community impact while enjoying generous benefits and a flexible work pattern.

Benefits

FREE On-Site Lunches

Flexible Working

Holiday Allowance

Family Leave

Paid Charity Leave

Qualifications

• Passionate and creative chef with a strong background in contract catering.
• Proven experience in a development or multi-site support role.

Responsibilities

• Develop training materials to drive compliance and improve performance.
• Manage food-related projects and collaborate with stakeholders.

Skills

Contract Catering

Hospitality

Communication Skills

Training Skills

Project Management

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

At Lexington, we strive to ensure that our colleagues feel appreciated & rewarded, which is why we offer generous rewards & benefits in exchange for your dedicated efforts.

• FREE On-Site Lunches: Savour delicious and healthy meals, on us, every day at work
• Flexible Working: Enjoy the freedom to balance work and personal life with our flexible working hours
• Holiday Allowance: Start with 28 days of holiday to relax and recharge, increasing to 31 days after two years of service
• Family Leave: Prioritise your family commitments with our family leave options designed to support you during important times
• Paid Charity Leave: Make a difference in your community with paid time off to volunteer for your favourite causes.

We’re a specialist catering company dedicated to providing delicious, healthy and exciting food for Independent Schools. We know the crucial role that food can play on a pupil’s ability to learn, develop and ultimately flourish. Food isn’t simply fuel, it’s critical to creating happy, healthy and inquisitive young minds.

Lexington is committed to safeguarding children and colleagues. Candidates that are shortlisted for this role will be required to have an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, including Children's Barred List.

What you’ll be doing…

As a Development Chef, you will play a key role in shaping the food identity of Lexington Independents (Education Sector). You’ll be responsible for supporting new openings, refreshing existing food offers, training onsite teams, and ensuring that every plate reflects the high standards and creativity we’re known for.

This is a nationwide role, so flexibility to travel and stay overnight as needed is essential.

Responsibilities:

• Develop training and support materials to drive compliance.
• Proactively identify problem sites and work with operations and other functions to improve financial and operational performance.
• Take on food-related projects and manage cross-functional food initiatives.
• Provide a collaborative approach for client group and wider stakeholders by working with Marketing & Promotions Managers and Executive Chefs to provide effective and innovative ongoing solutions in line with the annual marketing calendar.

Work Pattern: Monday to Friday. Flexible contract options available – either Term Time Only or Full Year (52 weeks).

What are we looking for? In this role:

• A passionate and creative chef with a strong background in contract catering, hospitality or restaurants.
• Proven experience in a development or multi-site support role is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication and training skills.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and adapt to different environments.
• Flexibility to travel across the UK and stay overnight when required.