Area Chef Manager

Area Chef Manager

Salary: £30,000 – £32,000 per annum
Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week (Term-time only, 39 weeks per year)
Schedule: Monday to Friday (No weekends, no late nights, closed over Christmas)
Locations: Guildford, Leatherhead, Fetcham, Surrey

About the Client

Here at Pineapple Recruitment, we are recruiting on behalf of a market-leading school contract caterer. Creating exciting food experiences that fuel young minds, they blend deep sector expertise with modern food trends. Rapid growth means they are now seeking an ambitious Area Chef Manager to take full operational and financial ownership of school catering facilities across their assigned region.

The Role & Responsibilities

This role goes beyond the kitchen. As a visionary leader, you will consistently deliver high-quality food and service, elevating the dining experience to establish one of the best school catering offers in the region. Key duties include:

• Financial Control: Manage and improve all controllable costs, including stock, food, and labour.

• Team Leadership: Lead, coach, train, and inspire your kitchen teams to deliver excellence every day.

• Culinary Innovation: Oversee menu development and drive sales through exciting monthly promotions and added-value events.

• Quality Assurance: Guarantee all standards, systems, and essential legislation are met through regular audits and proactive management.

About You

We are seeking a passionate, motivational leader ready to drive operational excellence and profitability with:

• A strong understanding of Gross Profit (GP) management and strategic know-how to achieve sales targets.

• Fantastic craft skills and a genuine commitment to using fresh ingredients.

• Proven line-management experience with the ability to coach, motivate, and develop high-performing teams.

• Excellent knowledge of Health & Safety practices and compliance.

• A full UK driving licence.

• An OND/HND qualification is a bonus, but practical, on-the-job experience is key.

Benefits

• Work-Life Balance: Monday to Friday, term-time only (39 weeks per year)—no late nights, weekends, or Christmas working.

• Career Growth: Dedicated Learning & Development team offering apprenticeship and training courses with unlimited progression.

Our client is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. An enhanced DBS disclosure will be required for the successful candidate.