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Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL); Royston; On-site; GBP 14,000 - 18,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Uniform provided

Refer a Friend bonus

Wellbeing support

Discounts via VIVUP

Job summary

Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL) is recruiting a Cook Manager to lead daily kitchen operations, preparing nutritious meals and managing stock and budgets in a school setting.

You will ensure food safety, monitor quality, and support allergen management while developing a high-performing team and fostering a positive school community through strong leadership.

Qualifications

• Leadership of a kitchen team in a school environment.
• Experience delivering nutritious meals to schedules.
• Strong knowledge of food safety and HACCP requirements.
• Ability to manage budgets, stock and order planning.
• Commitment to safeguarding and child welfare.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage 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 safety regs.
• Monitor food quality, presentation and portion control.
• Manage allergen awareness and dietary requirements.
• Build relationships with staff, students and the school community.
• Maintain records (HACCP, temps, audits).
• Develop and support 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

Cook Manager based at Studlands Rise 27.5 hpw

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: £13.22 per hour (£15,996 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