School Catering Manager: Lead Food & Service

Compass Group PLC; Watford; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Compass Group UK&I, operating Chartwells in the education sector, seeks an experienced Catering Manager to oversee catering and service operations on a full‑time basis (46 weeks/year, 40 hours/week). The role focuses on delivering exceptional food experiences, strong customer service, and robust team leadership.

You will manage kitchen and service counters, monitor KPIs and budgets, and drive continuous improvements while upholding health and safety standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years of catering experience.
• NVQ Level 1 & 2 or City & Guilds 706/1 and 2.
• Basic Food Hygiene certificate.
• Demonstrate brilliant financial acumen.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare delicious food to the highest standards.
• Supervise culinary and catering teams to ensure impeccable food and service.
• Oversee in‑unit catering operations including inventories, budgets and action plans.
• Communicate with line manager to monitor KPIs and targets.
• Represent Compass Group UK&I and maintain a positive brand image.
• Identify opportunities for new food or service concepts to drive sales.
• Liaise between customers and teams to exceed expectations.
• Train and support teams, leading from the front.
• Implement and review Health & Safety standards across teams.

Skills

Catering management

Team leadership

Budget management

Food safety knowledge

Education

NVQ Level 1 & 2 or City & Guilds 706/1 and 2

Job description

Compass Group UK&I, operating Chartwells in the education sector, seeks an experienced Catering Manager to oversee catering and service operations on a full‑time basis (46 weeks/year, 40 hours/week). The role focuses on delivering exceptional food experiences, strong customer service, and robust team leadership.

You will manage kitchen and service counters, monitor KPIs and budgets, and drive continuous improvements while upholding health and safety standards.