Unit Catering Manager: Chef Lead for Resident Dining

Jewish Care; East Finchley; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Jewish Care in East Finchley is seeking a Unit Catering Manager to lead a small team and deliver nutritionally tailored meals while upholding Jewish dietary practices. The role combines hands-on cooking (80%) with operational management (20%) and requires strong customer service and cost control.

The ideal candidate will have substantial kitchen leadership experience, relevant NVQ/City & Guilds qualifications, and proficiency with EPOS and menu systems.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2 or 3 in relevant fields (Essential)
• Proven experience as a Chef with catering operations leadership (Essential)
• At least five years' experience in a busy kitchen (Essential)
• COSHH awareness (Essential)
• Experience working to deadlines and budgets (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)
• 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)

Responsibilities

• Culinary management: prepare, cook, and present high-quality meals tailored to dietary needs.
• Develop and manage menus using Indicator Menu & Recipe Management System.
• Ensure strict compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.
• Client-Facing: engage with residents and families to cater to dietary preferences.
• Maintain high levels of customer service and resident satisfaction.
• Address concerns or complaints promptly and professionally.
• Operational management: manage EPOS system for billing and inventory tracking.
• Implement and manage Future Workforce Management System for staff scheduling.
• Manage stock control, orders, inventory, and waste reduction.
• Ensure efficient processing of invoices; lead and train the catering team.
• Develop staff rotas for adequate coverage; provide training and development.
• Monitor budgets and conduct regular financial reporting and analysis against budget.

Skills

Culinary management

Team leadership

Budget management

Customer service

Food safety

EPOS system

Menu development

Staff scheduling

Dietary compliance

Education

NVQ Level 2/3

City & Guilds 7061/2

Tools

EPOS systems

Future Workforce Management System

Indicator Menu/Recipe Management System

Recipe Management System

Job description

Jewish Care in East Finchley is seeking a Unit Catering Manager to lead a small team and deliver nutritionally tailored meals while upholding Jewish dietary practices. The role combines hands-on cooking (80%) with operational management (20%) and requires strong customer service and cost control.

The ideal candidate will have substantial kitchen leadership experience, relevant NVQ/City & Guilds qualifications, and proficiency with EPOS and menu systems.