Head Chef: Lead Kitchen & Menu Strategy

Manchester Arndale; Hazel Grove; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

OCS UK & Ireland is seeking an experienced Head Chef for its contract catering operations. You will lead kitchen staff, oversee menu development, and ensure high culinary standards while managing food costs and compliance.

You should have proven leadership skills, a Level 3 in Catering and Hospitality, and strong client relationships. Excellent communication and organisational abilities are essential for this fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership and team management experience in contract catering.
• Strong customer service skills and ability to handle varied client needs.
• Experience in budgeting, cost control and financial awareness in a catering environment.
• Excellent communication, time-management and organisational abilities.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office tools, especially Excel.

Responsibilities

• Creating and updating menus in accordance with seasonal and local ingredients, as well as being in line with clients’ requirements.
• Be responsible to oversee the kitchen staff, providing guidance, comprehensive training, and resolving any interpersonal conflicts that might arise.
• You will be required to manage the inventory by ensuring that the kitchen remains adequately stocked with fresh ingredients and culinary necessities. You must also change dishes should certain ingredients not be available.
• Our Head Chefs oversee the preparation and presentation of all dishes, ensuring high culinary standards and quality control, ensuring legal and company policies and procedures are met. Food costs must also be adhered to, to ensure budgets are maintained
• Maintaining a Safe and Clean Kitchen Environment. Our Head Chefs ensure that the kitchen is kept in a clean, tidy, and hygienic state in accordance with company and legal requirements

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Customer service

Time management

Excel

Organisational skills

Education

Level 3 Catering & Hospitality

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Office

Job description

OCS UK & Ireland is seeking an experienced Head Chef for its contract catering operations. You will lead kitchen staff, oversee menu development, and ensure high culinary standards while managing food costs and compliance.

You should have proven leadership skills, a Level 3 in Catering and Hospitality, and strong client relationships. Excellent communication and organisational abilities are essential for this fast-paced environment.