Head Chef: Elite School Catering Leader

Holroyd Howe; Buckingham; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

28 days holiday

Volunteer days

Grandparent leave

Enhanced maternity leave (24 weeks)

Pension & life insurance

Perkbox discounts

Wellbeing hub

Free meals at work

Career development

Job summary

Holroyd Howe in Buckingham is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead catering across Stowe Group school sites, delivering fresh, nutritious meals and high service standards. Based at Stowe School, you will drive culinary excellence and develop a talented kitchen team.

The role offers leadership across multiple locations within a prestigious educational environment, with focus on allergen management, food safety, and customer satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Experience as Head Chef in contract catering, preferably in independent education.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Passionate about fresh, quality ingredients and innovative menus.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and financial management skills.
• Knowledge of current food trends, sustainability, and allergen control.

Responsibilities

• Lead kitchen operations ensuring the highest standards of food quality, safety, and presentation.
• Create innovative and seasonal menus tailored to the school’s requirements.
• Manage kitchen staff recruitment, training, and development.
• Control budgets, stock, and supplier relationships efficiently.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety, health & safety, and safeguarding policies.
• Collaborate with the wider catering and school teams to deliver outstanding customer experiences.
• Accountability for following and championing allergen controls.

Skills

Head Chef experience

Leadership

Team management

Menu development

Food safety

Allergen control

Budgeting

Communication

Financial management

Job description

Holroyd Howe in Buckingham is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead catering across Stowe Group school sites, delivering fresh, nutritious meals and high service standards. Based at Stowe School, you will drive culinary excellence and develop a talented kitchen team.

The role offers leadership across multiple locations within a prestigious educational environment, with focus on allergen management, food safety, and customer satisfaction.