Relief Chef Manager - Newcastle

Compass Group UK & Ireland; Newcastle upon Tyne; Hybrid; GBP 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering company is seeking a Relief Chef Manager to oversee catering operations within a 50-mile radius of Newcastle. This role demands strong leadership and operational skills with a focus on high-quality service and client satisfaction. The successful candidate will manage food costs and compliance, while inspiring a dedicated team. A competitive salary of up to £33,418 plus a company car is offered, along with career development opportunities.

Benefits

Career development opportunities

Mentoring and hands-on experience

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Chef Manager with operational expertise.
• Ability to manage client relationships effectively.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee full catering operation from food to finance.
• Lead and motivate team for excellent service.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and company standards.

Skills

Operational experience as a Chef Manager

Passion for fresh food

Great communication skills

Strong financial acumen

Job description

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Job Introduction

Relief Chef Manager
Location: 50 mile radius of Newcastle
Salary: Up to £33,418 per annum plus Company Car
Working Pattern: 5 over 7, including weekends.

We have an exciting new opportunity for an experienced Relief Chef Manager to join our Culinary Support Team working within a 50 mile radius of the Newcastle region, however National travel will be required in line with business needs.

We're looking for a Relief Chef Manager who can do more than cook. This is a role for a hands‑on leader who's as confident at the stove as they are in a client meeting, someone who understands how to run a business, manage a team, and deliver food that delights.

Whilst covering the site, you'll oversee every aspect of the catering operation, from menu planning and team leadership to client relationships, budgets, compliance, and service delivery. You'll cook with passion, lead with purpose, and run the outlet like it's your own.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Oversee the full catering operation from food to finance to front of house.
• Lead, develop and motivate your team to deliver excellent service every day.
• Managing food costs, margins, waste and labour with commercial precision.
• Build strong relationships with our clients and guests. Understanding their needs, exceeding expectations and delivering service with an impact.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, health & safety and company standards at all times.
• Drive consistency and quality across the kitchen and wider catering operation.

What you’ll bring to the table:

• Proven experience as a Chef Manager with strong operational experience.
• A passion for fresh food, seasonal ingredients, and high-quality service delivery.
• Great communication and leadership skills, you inspire others with your energy.
• A strong sense of ownership and ability to manage client relationships.
• Strong financial acumen. You understand P&L, cost control, and business KPIs.
• Excellent communication and people management skills. You build trust, lead by example, and bring out the best in your team.

Hungry for more?

We also offer exciting culinary pathways for team members who want to level up. With real-time mentoring, hands‑on experience, and the chance to earn recognised qualifications, it's a delicious way to grow your skills while doing what you love.

Job Reference: com/1811/110800/52776293/SU

Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!