Head Chef: Lead Innovative School Menus & Kitchen Team

Holroyd Howe; Woldingham; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 61,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

28 days holiday

Volunteering days

Grandparent leave

Enhanced maternity leave

Training & development

Pension & life insurance

Perkbox discounts

Wellbeing hub

Free meals at work

Apprenticeship opportunities

Job summary

Holroyd Howe, a leading UK school caterer, seeks a passionate Head Chef to lead the culinary team at Woldingham School. You will design menus, oversee kitchen operations, and deliver exceptional dining experiences for pupils, staff and visitors.

Join a team focused on fresh ingredients, allergen controls, and safe, enjoyable meals. You will drive quality, manage budgets, and mentor kitchen staff to uphold Holroyd Howe’s standards in independent education.

Qualifications

• Experience as Head Chef within contract catering is preferred.
• Strong leadership, team management and communication skills.
• Knowledge of current food trends, sustainability and allergen controls.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Menu development

Budgeting & cost control

Job description

Holroyd Howe, a leading UK school caterer, seeks a passionate Head Chef to lead the culinary team at Woldingham School. You will design menus, oversee kitchen operations, and deliver exceptional dining experiences for pupils, staff and visitors.

Join a team focused on fresh ingredients, allergen controls, and safe, enjoyable meals. You will drive quality, manage budgets, and mentor kitchen staff to uphold Holroyd Howe’s standards in independent education.