Unit Catering Manager

Jewish Care; Chipping Barnet; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading community care provider in Chipping Barnet is seeking a dynamic Unit Catering Manager to oversee the dining experience at the Michael Sobell Jewish Community Cafe. This role is ideal for a passionate chef who enjoys engaging with people. You will lead a dedicated team to develop nutritional, seasonal menus aligned with Jewish cultural practices. The ideal candidate will have extensive culinary experience, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to exceptional customer service. This position includes a Monday to Friday schedule with occasional weekends.

Benefits

Meaningful impact in community services

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Chef managing catering operations, preferably in a care home.
• At least five years' experience in a busy kitchen.
• Working knowledge of Health and Safety legislation.

Responsibilities

• Prepare high quality meals tailored to residents' dietary needs.
• Engage with residents to understand dietary preferences.
• Oversee day-to-day catering operations for smooth service delivery.

Skills

Exceptional culinary skills

Excellent communication skills

Strong financial acumen

Experience working to deadlines

Ability to lead and manage a team

Education

NVQ Level 2 or 3 in relevant fields

City of Guilds 706 1 / 2 or equivalent

Tools

EPOS systems

Job description

This job is brought to you by Jobs/Redefined, the UK's leading over-50s age inclusive jobs board.

We are seeking a dynamic Unit Catering Manager to oversee the dining experience for our Michael Sobell Jewish Community Cafe. This role is perfect for a chef who is not only passionate about cooking but also loves engaging with people. You will lead a small team to develop and prepare nutritional, seasonal menus that align with Jewish cultural practices while ensuring exceptional customer service and operational efficiency.

This post is working Monday to Friday 10.30am to 7pm with occasional weekends.

The selection process will involve: An introductory Microsoft Teams Meeting for 30 minutes, selected candidates will then be asked to attend an interview and culinary assessment centre for 2 ½ hours.

What you will be doing:

Culinary Management:

• Preparing, cooking, and present high quality meals tailored to residents' dietary needs.
• Developing and managing menus using the Indicator Menu & Recipe Management System.
• Ensuring strict compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.

Client Facing and Customer Service:

• Engaging with residents and families to understand and cater to dietary preferences and requirements.
• Maintaining high levels of customer service, ensuring resident satisfaction.
• Addressing any concerns or complaints promptly and professionally.

Operational Management:

• Overseeing day to day catering operations, ensuring smooth service delivery.
• Managing the EPOS system for accurate billing and inventory tracking.
• Implement and manage the Future Workforce Management System for optimal staff scheduling.
• Managing stock control, including ordering supplies, maintaining inventory, and reducing wastage.
• Ensuring efficient processing and management of invoices.

Team Leadership:

• Leading, mentoring, and motivating the catering team, fostering a positive working environment.
• Developing staff rotas to ensure adequate coverage and efficient operation.
• Providing ongoing training and development opportunities for team members.

Financial Management:

• Monitoring and managing the catering budget, ensuring cost effectiveness and financial efficiency.
• Conducting regular financial reporting and analysis to track performance against budget.

What you will need:

• City of Guilds 706 1 / 2 or equivalent (Desirable)
• NVQ Level 2 or 3 in relevant fields (Essential)
• Proven experience as a Chef and in managing catering operations, preferably in a care home or similar environment (Essential)
• At least five years' experience in a busy kitchen (Essential)
• Awareness of COSHH (Essential)
• Experience working to deadlines and adhering to budgetary requirements (Essential)
• Takes responsibility for own work and making improvements where possible (Essential)
• Awareness of waste disposal techniques and infection control (Essential)
• Working knowledge of Health and Safety legislation (Essential)
• Exceptional culinary skills with a strong understanding of dietary needs and restrictions (Essential)
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal (Essential)
• IT Literacy - with an ability to pick up new systems with ease (Essential)
• Ability to communicate and manage interpersonal relationships, including influencing skills (Essential)
• Strong client facing skills with a commitment to excellent customer service (Essential)
• Proficient in using EPOS systems and other relevant software (Desirable)
• Excellent organizational and time management skills (Essential)
• Ability to lead and manage a team effectively (Essential)
• Strong financial acumen with experience in budget management (Essential)

Join our team and make a meaningful impact in a role that blends culinary expertise with exceptional management and customer service skills. Apply now to be our next Unit Catering Manager!

Jewish Care is the largest provider of health and social care services for the Jewish community in the UK. Every week, we touch the lives of 10,000 people. We provide services to a range of people including older people, people with mental health needs and people living with dementia.

Our five values are at the heart of the way we work. They drive how we act as individuals and as an organisation and shape our culture. We value Excellence, Integrity, Innovation, Compassion, and Inclusivity.

Jewish Care operate a rolling recruitment process and reserve the right to close the advert once a suitable candidate has been identified.