Area Chef Manager

Our client is a market-leading contract caterer specialising in school food. They don't just serve meals; they create fantastic food experiences that fuel young minds! By blending deep knowledge of the education sector with the latest food trends, they encourage creativity and excitement in every kitchen.

Our client’s commitment to quality care for both partners and children has fueled rapid growth, and they are looking for passionate people like you to join their journey.

The Role

Our client is seeking an ambitious Area Chef Manager, ready to take full operational and financial responsibility for the catering facilities of the schools within your region! This role goes beyond the kitchen—it requires a visionary leader with the flair and originality to consistently deliver the highest quality food and service, elevating the dining experience and establishing this as one of the best school catering offers in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Control: Managing and improving all controllable costs, including stock, food, and labour.
• Team Leadership: Leading, coaching, training, and inspiring your kitchen teams to deliver excellence every day.
• Culinary Innovation: Overseeing menu development and driving sales through exciting monthly promotions and added-value events.
• Quality Assurance: Guaranteeing all standards, systems, and essential legislation are met through regular audits and proactive management.

About You

Our client is looking for a passionate leader ready to drive excellence and profitability. If you are eager for a role where you can fully own the operation, you will need:

• A strong understanding of Gross Profit (GP) management and the strategic know-how to hit and exceed sales targets.
• Fantastic craft skills with a genuine commitment to using fresh ingredients to deliver exceptional quality food.
• Proven line management experience—you know how to coach, motivate, and develop a high-performing team.
• Excellent knowledge of health and safety practices and compliance.
• A full UK driving licence.
• A professional catering qualification (e.g., OND/HND) is a bonus, but strong on-the-job experience is what truly counts.

Why Join Our Client?

Exceptional Work-Life Balance:

• Monday to Friday during school term time—no late nights, no weekends, and no working over Christmas!
• 35 hours per week.
• 38 weeks per year—giving you substantial time off during school holidays!
• £16.50 per hour.

Career Growth & Development:

• Join a fast-growing, ambitious company with clear progression paths in contract catering.
• Benefit from a dedicated Learning & Development team offering apprenticeships and continuous training to hone your craft.

Ready to start a rewarding career with great hours? Apply today!

Please note: All staff must share our client's commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. An enhanced DBS disclosure will be required for this position.

Pineapple Recruitment is acting as a Recruitment Agency on behalf of our client for this vacancy.