Head Chef - Lead High-Volume School Catering (Flexible Hours)

Sodexo Group; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 36,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Uniform provided

Training and development

Wellbeing support

EAP

Cycle to work

Career progression

Job summary

Sodexo at Cheetham’s School of Music in Manchester is seeking a Head Chef to lead a high-volume catering operation serving up to 400 people across multiple service areas. You will plan and deliver meals, manage a team, and ensure quality, safety and efficiency in a fast-paced environment.

The role requires strong leadership, extensive contract catering experience, and a commitment to fresh food standards. Competitive salary and full benefits accompany the position.

Qualifications

• Experience in busy high-volume contract catering.
• Strong leadership and team management.
• Excellent time management and organisational skills.
• Communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage shifts and service periods.

Responsibilities

• Oversee core culinary activities across locations to ensure consistency and quality.
• Manage service delivery to meet performance, quality, and financial targets.
• Plan, cost, and implement menus using DRIVE planning tool.
• Recruit, induct and develop kitchen staff; address performance.
• Build long-term client relationships and support events.

Skills

High-volume catering

Team leadership

Food safety

Menu planning

Communication skills

Flexibility

Budget control

Education

NVQ Level 2 Food Production

Intermediate Food Hygiene certificate

Job description

Sodexo at Cheetham’s School of Music in Manchester is seeking a Head Chef to lead a high-volume catering operation serving up to 400 people across multiple service areas. You will plan and deliver meals, manage a team, and ensure quality, safety and efficiency in a fast-paced environment.

The role requires strong leadership, extensive contract catering experience, and a commitment to fresh food standards. Competitive salary and full benefits accompany the position.