Kitchen Manager

Chiltern Recruitment; Greater London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A catering recruitment agency is looking for an experienced Cook/Chef - Kitchen Manager to oversee kitchen operations in High Wycombe. This role offers a structured work schedule with term-time only hours and requires strong leadership skills in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate will have supervisory experience and a full UK driving licence, along with excellent organizational and communication skills.

Benefits

Stable and permanent role

Term-time only working

Structured hours, Monday to Friday

Qualifications

• Full UK driving licence is essential.
• Reliable, punctual, and committed to maintaining operational standards.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily kitchen operations with high-quality output.
• Supervise a team, ensuring productivity and collaboration.
• Oversee hygiene and safety compliance.
• Manage stock rotation and ordering of fresh produce.
• Coordinate meal plans for dietary restrictions.

Skills

Previous experience in fast-paced catering

Supervisory/management experience

Excellent organizational skills

Strong communication skills

Attention to detail

Job description

Our client is seeking a proactive and experienced Cook/Chef - Kitchen Manager to oversee day-to-day operations at its busy kitchen in High Wycombe. Leading a small, dedicated team, the role involves coordinating the preparation and distribution of high-volume meals to multiple locations across the region.

This hands-on position offers excellent work-life balance with early shifts and term-time only working, making it well-suited to professionals seeking regular hours in a well-organised environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage daily kitchen operations, ensuring consistent, high-quality output and timely distribution to designated drop-off points
• Supervise a team of four, assigning tasks and maintaining productivity in a supportive and collaborative working culture
• Oversee hygiene, health, and safety compliance, including maintenance of accurate daily records
• Manage stock rotation and ordering of fresh produce, packaging, and consumables to minimise waste and prevent shortages
• Provide delivery support as needed, maintaining service continuity during periods of staff absence
• Coordinate regular supplier visits including supermarket, wholesale, and local produce pickups
• Implement deep-cleaning routines weekly and ensure daily clean-downs are conducted to the highest standards
• Develop safe and compliant meal plans for individuals with dietary restrictions or allergies, with robust safeguarding procedures
• Generate daily and weekly operational documentation (e.g. lists, labels, spreadsheets) to support accurate and efficient workflow

Candidate Requirements:

• Previous experience in a fast-paced catering or food production setting, with previous supervisory/management responsibilities
• Full UK driving licence (essential)
• Strong communicator with excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
• Reliable, punctual, and committed to maintaining operational standards

What s on Offer:

• Term-time only working
• Structured hours: Monday to Thursday 6am 3pm, Friday 6am 1pm no evenings or weekends
• Stable and permanent role
• Supportive environment where your contribution has a direct impact on service quality

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced kitchen professional to step into a leadership role with autonomy, structure, and a positive team environment.