Term-Time School Catering Chef Manager: Lead, Innovate

Aspens Services Ltd.; Wymondham; Hybrid; GBP 17,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

Aspens Services Ltd, a market-leading contract caterer specialising in school food, seeks a Chef Manager to take full operational and financial responsibility for a school catering facility. You will lead a kitchen team, develop menus, promote sales through monthly promotions and maintain high standards of quality and safety.

The role requires strong GP management, proven line management experience, and a passion for fresh ingredients.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of Gross Profit (GP) management and the strategic know‑how to smash sales targets.
• Excellent craft skills with a genuine commitment to using fresh ingredients to deliver exceptional quality food.
• Proven experience in line management—you know how to coach, motivate, and inspire to develop a high‑performing team.
• Excellent knowledge of health and safety practices.
• A qualification like OND/HND is a bonus, but your on‑the‑job experience is what we’re truly after.

Responsibilities

• Financial control: Managing and improving all controllable costs, including stock, food and labour.
• Team Leadership: Lead, coach, train and inspire your kitchen team to deliver excellence every day.
• Culinary Innovation: Oversee menu development and drive sales through monthly promotions and added‑value events.
• Quality Assurance: Guarantee all standards, systems and essential legislation are met through regular audits and proactive management.

Skills

Team leadership

GP management

Health & safety

Education

OND/HND

Job description

Aspens Services Ltd, a market-leading contract caterer specialising in school food, seeks a Chef Manager to take full operational and financial responsibility for a school catering facility. You will lead a kitchen team, develop menus, promote sales through monthly promotions and maintain high standards of quality and safety.

The role requires strong GP management, proven line management experience, and a passion for fresh ingredients.