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Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL); Rickmansworth; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 32,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Uniform provided

Refer a Friend reward (up to £500)

VIVUP exclusive discounts

Wellbeing support via EAP/Stream

Enhanced DBS paid by HCL

Job summary

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL) is seeking a Chef Manager to lead the kitchen, delivering nutritious meals for students and staff with high-quality service. You will oversee daily operations, ensure safety and hygiene, and manage budgets and stock while developing a motivated team.

The role emphasises safeguarding, allergen management, and adherence to school food standards, with uniform provided and term-time hours. DBS disclosure is paid by HCL.

Qualifications

• Committed to safeguarding children and young people.
• Experience leading a kitchen team.
• Strong planning and time management skills.
• Confident managing budgets, stock, and kitchen operations.
• Knowledge of food safety, allergens and school food standards.

Responsibilities

• 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 relationships with staff, students and the school community.
• Maintain accurate records (e.g., HACCP, temperature checks, audits).
• Inspire and develop your team to grow and thrive.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Stock control

Food safety

Allergen awareness

Team development

Planning

Time management

Education

NVQ Level 2/3

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.

Let's talk about the role of a Chef Manager:

As a Chef Manager, you will lead the preparation and service of fresh, nutritious meals, ensuring students and staff enjoy high-quality food and excellent service every day.

• 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 Chef 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:

£17.55 per hour (£31,654 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

Exclusive 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