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Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL); Harlow; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 22,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Term-time schedule

Uniform provided

Enhanced DBS paid by employer

Job summary

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL) is seeking a Cook Manager to lead the school kitchen, deliver fresh, nutritious meals, and set high standards of service every day.

You will manage budgets, stock, and records (HACCP, temperature checks) while developing your team in a fast-paced environment. Term Time Only, £14.68 per hour (£19,381 per annum). Enhanced DBS disclosure paid by HCL.

Qualifications

• Experience leading a kitchen team with strong people management.
• Strong planning and time management skills.
• Ability to manage budgets and stock levels.
• Knowledge of food safety, hygiene and school food standards.
• Proactive and flexible in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day kitchen operations.
• Prepare and deliver fresh, nutritious meals.
• Oversee stock control, ordering and budgeting.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene and health & safety regulations.
• Monitor food quality, presentation and portion control.
• Manage allergen awareness and cater for dietary requirements.
• Build positive relationships with staff, students and the wider school community.
• Maintain records (HACCP, temperature checks, audits).
• Inspire and develop your team.

Skills

Kitchen leadership

Budget management

Food safety

Allergen awareness

Team development

Education

NVQ Level 2/3

Tools

HACCP

Stock control

Job description

At HCL SAFEGUARDING IS OUR NUMBER ONE PRIORITY. The safety of children and young people is at the heart of everything we do.

About us:

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

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 Cook Manager:

• 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 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

Salary:

£14.68 per hour (£19,381 per annum)

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

Cook Manager career with HCL starts here.