Mobile Kitchen Manager – Kent (Term-Time)

Sodexo; Gillingham; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and wellbeing support

Employee Assistance Programme

Discounts scheme

Retirement plan

Protective uniform

Cycle to Work

Job summary

Sodexo is seeking a Mobile Cook Manager to oversee catering operations across Kent and surrounding areas, including South East London, Medway, Maidstone, Tonbridge and Ashford. You will manage the kitchen team, control costs, and ensure high food quality and service standards, with reasonable hours and holidays off.

You will lead by example, mentor staff, and maintain strict health and safety practices while delivering excellence in school catering.

Qualifications

• Full UK Driving Licence and own vehicle required.
• Experience cooking for large groups (100–1300 students).
• Experience following recipes in a similar setting.
• Previous staff supervision experience or line management.
• Experience working with fresh produce and ingredients.
• Awareness of health and safety procedures.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Professional, lead by example with a positive attitude.
• NVQ Level 2 and Level 2 Food Safety Certification required (training provided).
• Minimum 1 year hands-on cooking experience; training on Food Hygiene and Health & Safety provided.

Responsibilities

• Manage replenishment of food and dismantling of work areas after service.
• Develop, mentor, conduct training, and inspire the kitchen team.
• Control catering operation including labour, food, and stock expenses.
• Manage and optimise all controllable costs.
• Ensure uniform standards of food and service for staff, visitors and students.
• Create and develop menus.
• Conduct routine audits to ensure standards are followed.

Skills

Large-scale cooking

Staff supervision

Health & safety

Food handling

Working under pressure

Professional leadership

Education

NVQ Level 2

Level 2 Food safety Certificate

Job description

Sodexo is seeking a Mobile Cook Manager to oversee catering operations across Kent and surrounding areas, including South East London, Medway, Maidstone, Tonbridge and Ashford. You will manage the kitchen team, control costs, and ensure high food quality and service standards, with reasonable hours and holidays off.

You will lead by example, mentor staff, and maintain strict health and safety practices while delivering excellence in school catering.