Group Chef

Grow and Thrive Limited; Greater London; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Aspens Services in South East London is seeking an ambitious Group Chef to take ownership of service delivery across a portfolio of contracts. You will be the strategic link between our business and clients, driving excellence in food and service while managing costs and compliance.

The role demands multisite leadership, strong budget control, mentoring of line managers, and involvement in growth initiatives and new business mobilisations. DBS disclosure will be required for appointment.

Qualifications

• You are an exceptional, results-driven leader with a genuine passion for food and service.
• You have proven multisite operational experience managing large teams, coupled with the confidence and communication skills to effectively handle HR and performance-related issues.
• You are financially astute, with demonstrated experience in both managing and compiling budgets.
• You are passionate about food, stay current with industry trends, and possess a clear, demonstrable understanding of what truly exceptional service looks like.
• You are highly motivated, inspire others around you, and have a keen eye for detail that ensures success in every aspect of your role.
• DBS disclosure may be required for appointment.

Responsibilities

• Financial & Quality Oversight: Take responsibility for controlling costs while ensuring service quality and delivery are maintained at a high level.
• Culinary Innovation: Guarantee our food offering is of the highest standard, proactively incorporating current high street trends to keep services fresh.
• People Development: Manage, mentor, and support the development and performance of all line reporting managers.
• Business Growth: Play a key role in growth initiatives, including leading and assisting in new business mobilisations and supporting sales/retention presentations.
• Compliance & Projects: Ensure adherence to Health & Safety and Hygiene standards and lead strategic business projects.

Job description

The following content displays a map of the jobs location - South East London

Aspens Services is a market-leading contract caterer specialising in school food. We don't just serve meals—we create fantastic food experiences that fuel young minds! By blending deep knowledge of the education sector with the latest food trends, we encourage creativity and excitement in every kitchen.

Our commitment to quality care for both clients and children has fueled rapid growth, and we are looking for passionate people like you to join our journey.

The Role:

We are looking for an ambitious Group Chef to take ownership of service delivery across a portfolio of contracts. This isn't just about meeting expectations—it’s about using your operational and financial expertise to consistently exceed client, customer, and company goals. You will be the strategic link between our business and our valued clients, driving excellence in every service area.

This pivotal position offers:

• 40 hours per week
• 40 weeks per year
• £38,000 per annum

Key Responsibilities:

• Financial & Quality Oversight:Take responsibility for controlling costs while ensuring service quality and delivery are maintained at a consistently high level.
• Culinary Innovation:Guarantee our food offering is of the highest standard, proactively incorporating current high street trends to keep our services fresh and exciting.
• People Development:Manage, mentor, and support the development and performance of all line reporting managers.
• Business Growth:Play a key role in growth initiatives, including leading and assisting in new business mobilisations and supporting high‑stakes sales and retention presentations.
• Compliance & Projects:Ensure robust adherence to all Health & Safety and Hygiene standards while leading strategic business projects as required.

About You:

You are an exceptional, results-driven leader with a genuine passion for food and service.

You have proven multisite operational experience managing large teams, coupled with the confidence and communication skills to effectively handle HR and performance‑related issues.

You are financially astute, with demonstrated experience in both managing and compiling budgets.

You are passionate about food, stay current with industry trends, and possess a clear, demonstrable understanding of what truly exceptional service looks like.

You are highly motivated, inspire others around you, and have a keen eye for detail that ensures success in every aspect of your role.

Please note, we expect all staff to share our commitment of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children/young people so an enhanced DBS disclosure will be sought by the company