Regional Relief Chef Manager — Travel Paid

WSH Group; Watford; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

28 days holiday

Birthday off

Enhanced maternity leave (24 weeks)

Secondary carer leave

Wedding/commitment day leave

Free meals on shift

Training opportunities

Apprenticeships opportunities

Pension & life insurance

Perkbox discounts

Employee assistance programme

Cycle to work

Job summary

BaxterStorey is seeking an experienced Regional Relief Chef Manager for Watford and surrounding areas. You will cover regional kitchens, lead relief shifts, uphold food safety and HACCP, and ensure consistent quality across sites. This permanent role offers a dynamic environment with travel between locations.

You will manage budgets, schedules, and staffing while mentoring teams and ensuring a high standard of culinary excellence in fast-paced settings.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience as a Chef or Kitchen Manager in high‑volume environments.
• Proven track record leading kitchen teams.
• Strong knowledge of HACCP, hygiene and food safety.

Responsibilities

• Respond flexibly to operational demands and provide relief cover at short notice across assigned regional locations, maintaining consistent quality standards and operational procedures.
• Lead and manage kitchen teams during relief shifts, providing clear direction and support to ensure smooth operations and team continuity.
• Oversee food preparation, cooking, and plating to ensure compliance with organizational standards and health and safety regulations.
• Conduct quality assurance checks and implement corrective actions to maintain service standards across all relief assignments.
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of HACCP procedures and ensure full compliance with food safety legislation at all times.
• Manage kitchen budgets, control costs, and optimize resource allocation during relief periods.
• Conduct staff inductions and provide on-the-job training to support team development and operational continuity.
• Create and manage staff rosters and schedules to ensure adequate coverage and operational efficiency.
• Monitor inventory levels, manage stock rotation, and minimize food waste across multiple sites.
• Liaise with regional management and other kitchen facilities to coordinate operations and share best practice.
• Foster a positive, professional kitchen culture that prioritises safety, quality, and teamwork, even in temporary assignments.

Skills

Chef leadership

Kitchen management

HACCP & food safety

Health & safety compliance

Budget management

Staff scheduling

Team training & mentoring

Flexibility travel

Communication skills

Multi‑cuisine knowledge

Job description

BaxterStorey is seeking an experienced Regional Relief Chef Manager for Watford and surrounding areas. You will cover regional kitchens, lead relief shifts, uphold food safety and HACCP, and ensure consistent quality across sites. This permanent role offers a dynamic environment with travel between locations.

You will manage budgets, schedules, and staffing while mentoring teams and ensuring a high standard of culinary excellence in fast-paced settings.