Head Chef – Lead a High-Volume Manchester Kitchen

Chartwells Independent; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Contributory pension

Career development paths

Healthcare for you and family

Travel discounts (TUI, Expedia, etc.)

Discounts on groceries

Cinema discounts

Cash rewards

Wellness and mindfulness classes

Friend/family offers

Job summary

Restaurant Associates in Manchester is seeking a Contract Catering Head Chef to lead a newly mobilised site. You will own a busy production kitchen, set standards, and inspire a high-performing team while delivering exceptional food and service.

You will shape menus, mentor staff and drive healthy, contemporary offerings in a fast-paced corporate dining environment. This is a hands-on leadership role with ownership from day one.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Senior Sous Chef, Head Chef or similar senior kitchen position.
• Min. 2 years' experience at Head Chef level or equivalent.
• Experience in B&I, corporate or contract catering.
• Strong leadership and team management in high-volume kitchens.
• Passion for high-quality food and creative menu development.
• Knowledge of healthy eating and contemporary food trends.

Responsibilities

• Taking overall responsibility for a full production kitchen within a busy staff dining environment.
• Leading the kitchen team, setting high standards and a positive culture.
• Managing hospitality, events and functions with high-quality service.
• Delivering exceptional food standards across a high-volume operation.
• Developing and mentoring your team and their progression.
• Creating fresh, healthy, innovative menus reflecting current trends.
• Hands-on across all areas of the kitchen when required.
• Driving consistency, efficiency and food quality.
• Collaborating with the wider team for successful site mobilisation.

Skills

Senior leadership

Head Chef experience

High-volume kitchens

Team leadership

Menu development

Healthy eating trends

Ownership mindset

Job description

Restaurant Associates in Manchester is seeking a Contract Catering Head Chef to lead a newly mobilised site. You will own a busy production kitchen, set standards, and inspire a high-performing team while delivering exceptional food and service.

You will shape menus, mentor staff and drive healthy, contemporary offerings in a fast-paced corporate dining environment. This is a hands-on leadership role with ownership from day one.