Head Chef/Catering Manager

Reed; City Of London; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering services provider is seeking a Head Chef/Catering Manager in Surbiton. The successful candidate will lead culinary operations, manage staff, and ensure high standards of food quality and safety. This role offers the opportunity to innovate menus and enhance customer satisfaction. Strong leadership and financial management skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in culinary leadership and catering management.
• Ability to train and develop kitchen staff to achieve high standards.
• Strong knowledge of health and food safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver high-quality menus.
• Oversee daily catering operations and manage budgets.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

Skills

Culinary Leadership

Cost-effective procurement

Team management

Health and safety compliance

Customer service excellence

Job description

Overview

Job Title: Head Chef/Catering Manager Department: Catering / Hospitality Services Location: Surbiton Working Hours: Monday - Friday - 7am to 3pm

Responsibilities

Culinary Leadership

• Plan, prepare, and deliver high-quality, creative, and seasonal menus to provide hot and cold catering for diverse employee needs, including vegetarian, Gulen free options.
• Oversee all food preparation and presentation to ensure quality, consistency, and portion control.
• Lead by example in the kitchen, performing all aspects of preparation, cooking and serving as well as maintaining the highest culinary and hygiene standards. Including full kitchen cover when required
• Develop new catering menu concepts, variations and themed lunches to enhance customer satisfaction and engagement

Operational & Management Duties

• Oversee day-to-day catering operations, including kitchen, front-of-house cleaning, and event delivery.
• Develop and implement operational procedures to maximise efficiency and quality.
• Ensure all catering activities are delivered on time, within budget and to specification.
• Manage procurement and supplier relationships, ensuring fresh quality ingredients and cost-effective sourcing. Including secure ordering and stock storage

Staff Leadership & Development

• Recruit, train, and manage catering and kitchen staff, ensuring high performance and adherence to standards. Including all aspects of personal and team daily management
• Conduct regular team meetings, performance reviews, and training sessions, including performance management, mentoring and coaching when needed.
• Foster a positive, productive, enjoyable and professional working environment focused on teamwork and continuous improvement.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations (including HACCP and allergen management that is clear and readily available).
• Maintain all required records, including temperature logs, cleaning schedules, and safety checklists.
• Liaise with environmental health officers and other regulatory bodies as required.

Financial & Administrative Responsibilities

• Manage catering budgets, including food costs, staffing, and overheads.
• Monitor and control stock levels, ordering, and wastage.
• Analyse financial performance and report on sales, costs, and profitability.

Customer Service & Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships.
• Respond promptly and professionally to feedback, complaints, and special requests.
• Ensure exceptional customer service standards are consistently delivered.

If you are interested in this position and have the relevant experience, please apply asap