Kitchen Manager: Lead Team & Elevate Guest Experience

Youth Hostels Association (England & Wales); York and North Yorkshire; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 23,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

10 nights free hostel stays per year

Staff discount and cash back portal

Free YHA Membership

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

YHA York is seeking a Kitchen Manager to lead the hostel's catering operation, ensuring high quality food, hygiene and safety while guiding a busy team. You will balance daily kitchen management with administrative duties and agree KPIs for food service to groups and guests.

The role requires hands-on leadership, effective training, and a focus on guest experience, profitability and waste reduction within a friendly, inclusive environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in hospitality leadership and delivering quality service.
• Knowledge of food safety standards and best practices.
• Qualification in City & Guilds 706/1&2 or NVQ4 (or equivalent).
• Working knowledge of allergens and health & safety compliance requirements.
• Excellent numeracy, stock control and waste management to maximise profit.
• Experience of managing a team and guiding staff.
• Ability to handle varying pressures and prioritise duties.
• Proficient with Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel.
• Understanding of YHA’s core purpose and HEART values.

Responsibilities

• Manage the food and beverage operation within the hostel.
• Lead the preparation and delivery of food to YHA standards.
• Carry out cleaning duties in kitchen and service areas.
• Minimise food and beverage waste.
• Maximise food and beverage profits.

Skills

Hospitality experience

Food safety Level 2

Allergen awareness

Numeracy skills

Stock control

Team leadership

Prioritisation under pressure

Basic IT skills

MS Office

HEART values understanding

Education

City & Guilds 706/1&2

NVQ4 or equivalent

Food Safety Level 2 certificate

Tools

Microsoft Word

Outlook

Excel

Job description

YHA York is seeking a Kitchen Manager to lead the hostel's catering operation, ensuring high quality food, hygiene and safety while guiding a busy team. You will balance daily kitchen management with administrative duties and agree KPIs for food service to groups and guests.

The role requires hands-on leadership, effective training, and a focus on guest experience, profitability and waste reduction within a friendly, inclusive environment.