Term-Time School Kitchen Manager: Lead & Mentor

Sodexo; Gillingham; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 19,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Online wellbeing platform

Employee Assistance Programme

Free health app and 24hr virtual GP

Sodexo Discounts Scheme

Salary insights and financial benefits

Retirement plan

Life assurance (Death in Service)

Learning & development tools

Cycle to Work scheme

Volunteering opportunities

Flexible working environment

Full training and protective uniform

Job summary

Sodexo is seeking a Cook Manager at Featherby Infant and Nursery School in Gillingham to oversee all aspects of food and beverage operations and finances for the school kitchen. You will ensure high standards of food and service, mentor the kitchen team, and maintain a positive, compliant working environment during term-time hours.

The role emphasizes cooking on a large scale, staff supervision, and adherence to health and safety.

Qualifications

• Experience cooking on a large scale (100–1300 students).
• Experience following recipes in a school/kitchen setting.
• Previous staff supervision or line management experience.
• Experience working with fresh produce.
• Knowledge of health and safety procedures.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Professional, lead by example with a positive outlook.
• NVQ Level 2; Level 2 Food Safety; at least 1 year hands-on cooking; training on Food Hygiene and Health & Safety provided.

Responsibilities

• Manage replenishment of food and dismantling of work areas after service.
• Develop, mentor, train and inspire the kitchen team.
• Control catering operation including labour, food and stock expenses.
• Manage and optimise costs under your control.
• Ensure consistent food and service standards for staff, visitors and students.
• Develop and implement menus.
• Conduct routine audits to ensure standards are met.

Skills

Team leadership

Training

Health & safety

Menu development

Cost control

Pressure handling

Professional conduct

Education

NVQ Level 2

Level 2 Food Safety

Job description

Sodexo is seeking a Cook Manager at Featherby Infant and Nursery School in Gillingham to oversee all aspects of food and beverage operations and finances for the school kitchen. You will ensure high standards of food and service, mentor the kitchen team, and maintain a positive, compliant working environment during term-time hours.

The role emphasizes cooking on a large scale, staff supervision, and adherence to health and safety.