Read more

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL); Crawley; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 21,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Uniform provided

Mileage reimbursement

Refer a Friend £500 bonus (T&Cs)

Job summary

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL) is seeking a Mobile Cook Manager to lead kitchen teams across Crawley and surrounding areas. You will travel to schools, oversee meal preparation, and ensure high standards of food safety and service.

The role combines hands-on cooking with team development, budget management, and strong planning to deliver quality meals and a positive dining experience for students every day.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable.
• Proven leadership in a busy kitchen environment.
• Experience managing budgets, stock, and kitchen operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage day-to-day kitchen operations across multiple sites.
• Prepare and deliver fresh, nutritious meals to schools.
• Oversee stock control, ordering and budget management.

Skills

Team leadership

Budget management

Food safety

Allergen management

Driving licence

Education

NVQ Level 2/3

Job description

Mobile Cook Manager Crawley and surrounding area

At HCL, we're more than just a caterer. We proudly serve over 16 million meals a year, delivering outstanding dining experiences across schools and the commercial sector.

As a Mobile Cook Manager, you won't just run a kitchen - you'll be hands on leading the team, shaping the culture and setting the standard for quality and service that your school will depend on every day.

Let's talk about the role of a Mobile Cook Manager:

• Flexible to travel to primary & secondary schools to provide support services as required
• Lead and manage the day-to-day kitchen operations
• Prepare, and deliver fresh, nutritious meals
• Oversee stock control, ordering, and budget management
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations
• Monitor food quality, presentation, and portion control
• Manage allergen awareness and cater for special dietary requirements
• Build positive relationships with staff, students, and the wider school community
• Maintain accurate records (e.g. HACCP, temperature checks, audits)
• Inspiring and developing your team, creating an environment where people grow and thrive

About the Ideal Mobile Cook Manager:

• Committed to safeguarding children and young people
• NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable
• An experienced leader who can motivate and develop a high-performing team
• Well-organised, with strong planning and time management skills
• Confident managing budgets, stock, and kitchen operations
• Knowledgeable in food safety, allergens, and school food standards
• Committed to maintaining high standards of hygiene and compliance
• Proactive, flexible, and able to work in a fast-paced environment
• Dedicated to providing an excellent dining experience every day

Essential Vehicle Requirements:

• Full valid driving licence
• Business insurance
• Valid MOT and road tax
• Access to your own vehicle

Salary: £15.85 per hour (£19,178 per annum)

Mileage Reimbursement: 55p Per Mile

Schedule: Term Time Only - Enjoy all School Holidays off

Uniform provided

Rewards: Spread the Word & Earn Up to £500 - Refer a Friend! (T&Cs apply)

Succeed with us: Career progression opportunities

Excusive discounts: via VIVUP for supermarkets, cinemas, retail, dining, hotels, and family activities

Wellbeing matters: Support through EAP & Financial Support via Stream

Safeguarding: Enhanced DBS Disclosure paid by HCL -

No Cost to You