Chef Manager

Compass; Pontefract; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering and support services company is seeking a Chef Manager in Pontefract. You will oversee the entire catering operation, lead a motivated team, manage food costs, and ensure compliance with health standards. Ideal candidates will have strong leadership, financial acumen, and a passion for fresh food. This role offers the opportunity to grow in a vibrant culinary environment and contribute to client satisfaction.

Benefits

Exciting culinary pathways

Real-time mentoring

Opportunity to earn qualifications

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Chef Manager or Head Chef with strong operational experience.
• A passion for fresh food and high-quality service delivery.
• Strong financial acumen, understanding P&L and cost control.

Responsibilities

• Oversee every aspect of the catering operation.
• Lead and develop the team for excellent daily service.
• Manage food costs, margins, waste, and labor effectively.
• Build strong client relationships and exceed expectations.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and health standards.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Financial acumen

Client relationship management

Team motivation

Job description

Chef Manager

Fixed Term Contract: Up to end of July - potential to extend further
Location: Pontefract
Salary: Up to £30,000 per annum, depending on experience (pro-rota)
Working Pattern: Flexible between 6am and 4pm, 5 days over 7

We’re looking for a Chef Manager who can do more than cook. This is a role for a hands-on leader who’s as confident at the stove as they are in a client meeting, someone who understands how to run a business, manage a team, and deliver food that delights.

As the heartbeat of the site, you’ll oversee every aspect of the catering operation, from menu planning and team leadership to client relationships, budgets, compliance, and service delivery. You’ll cook with passion, lead with purpose, and run the outlet like it’s your own.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Oversee the full catering operation from food to finance to front of house.
• Lead, develop and motivate your team to deliver excellent service every day.
• Managing food costs, margins, waste and labour with commercial precision.
• Build strong relationships with our clients and guests. Understanding their needs, exceeding expectations and delivering service with an impact.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, health & safety and company standards at all times.
• Drive consistency and quality across the kitchen and wider catering operation.

What you’ll bring to the table:

• Proven experience as a Chef Manager or Head Chef with strong operational experience.
• A passion for fresh food, seasonal ingredients, and high-quality service delivery.
• Great communication and leadership skills—you inspire others with your energy.
• A strong sense of ownership and ability to manage client relationships.
• Strong financial acumen — you understand P&L, cost control, and business KPIs.
• Excellent communication and people management skills — you build trust, lead by example, and bring out the best in your team.

Hungry for more?

We also offer exciting culinary pathways for team members who want to level up. With real-time mentoring, hands-on experience, and the chance to earn recognised qualifications, it’s a delicious way to grow your skills while doing what you love.

For more information about careers at 14forty and our benefits please visit: Careers at 14forty

Compass Group UK&I wants everyone in our business to feel able to be themselves at work and to have an equal opportunity to progress their career. We want to create a culture where we respect and embrace everyone's talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities. Where our colleagues feel valued, can reach their full potential, and thrive - Diversity is Our Strength!

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