Lead Chef Manager — Fresh School Catering & Team Leadership

Holroyd Howe; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

28 days holiday

Volunteer days

Grandparent leave (3 days)

Enhanced maternity leave (24 weeks)

Training & development

Pension & life insurance

Perkbox discounts

Wellbeing hub & EAP

Free meals at work

Apprenticeships for all experience

Job summary

Holroyd Howe is seeking an experienced Chef Manager to lead the catering operation at St Andrew's College Cambridge. You will manage day-to-day kitchen operations, deliver fresh, high-quality meals, and ensure exceptional service for pupils, staff and visitors.

Joining Holroyd Howe, a leading contract caterer for independent schools, you will work with a team to maintain allergen controls, uphold food safety standards, and develop menus using seasonal ingredients; a strong focus on safeguarding

Qualifications

• Experience as a Chef Manager or similar in contract catering.
• Strong kitchen management and leadership skills.
• Passion for fresh seasonal ingredients to create balanced menus.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.
• Knowledge of food safety, allergen management, and sustainability best practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead kitchen operations ensuring high standards of food quality, safety, and presentation.
• Manage and support a small kitchen team, fostering a positive working environment.
• Oversee menu planning, stock control, and supplier relationships.
• Maintain accurate financial records including budgets, ordering, and stock rotation.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, health & safety, and safeguarding policies.
• Collaborate with the school community to provide a friendly and efficient catering experience.
• Ensure allergen controls are followed and championed.

Skills

Kitchen management

Leadership

Menu planning

Allergen management

Food safety

Job description

Holroyd Howe is seeking an experienced Chef Manager to lead the catering operation at St Andrew's College Cambridge. You will manage day-to-day kitchen operations, deliver fresh, high-quality meals, and ensure exceptional service for pupils, staff and visitors.

Joining Holroyd Howe, a leading contract caterer for independent schools, you will work with a team to maintain allergen controls, uphold food safety standards, and develop menus using seasonal ingredients; a strong focus on safeguarding