Vacancies

Chef Manager

Job Description

Chef Manager – Primary School | London SW12
Full-Time, 52 Weeks | £48,000 per year + KPI Bonus
Excellent Work-Life Balance | Daytime Hours, Monday-Friday

The Opportunity

Pineapple Recruitment is working exclusively with a leading, quality-focused contract caterer to recruit a talented Chef Manager for a prestigious school in London SW12. This is a rare opportunity to lead a catering operation in a brand-new, state-of-the-art kitchen facility. Our client is looking for a culinary leader who can bring innovation and excellence to the student, staff, and hospitality dining experience.

Key Responsibilities

Culinary Leadership: Oversee all food production, ensuring top-tier quality, presentation, and consistency for students, staff, and high-profile hospitality events.
Team Management: Lead, mentor, and develop a professional kitchen brigade, fostering a positive and high-performing working culture.
Operational Excellence: Manage the full site operation, including budgets, stock control, and supplier relationships.
Menu Innovation: Create seasonal, creative, and nutritious menus that reflect modern food trends and drive satisfaction.
Client Relations: Act as the primary culinary contact, maintaining a strong and professional partnership with the school’s stakeholders.
Compliance: Ensure 5-star standards in food hygiene, Health & Safety, and all internal auditing systems.

What Our Client Is Looking For

Experience: Proven background as an Executive Chef, Head Chef, or Chef Manager, ideally within education, B&I, or high-volume contract catering.
Leadership: A natural leader with a "can-do" attitude and excellent communication skills.
Financial Acumen: Strong commercial awareness with experience managing GP targets, kitchen budgets, and labour costs.
Passion: A genuine love for fresh, seasonal ingredients and a drive to deliver outstanding food.
Qualifications: NVQ Level 3/4 or equivalent culinary degree, and a current Level 3 Food Hygiene certificate.

What’s On Offer

Salary: £48,000 per year + KPI-based bonus.
Hours: Daytime hours, 52 weeks per year, no weekends—providing stability and a professional environment.
Environment: Work in a stunning, modern, and well-equipped kitchen within a prestigious setting.
Support: Benefit from the structure and backing of a highly reputable, quality-driven contractor.
Development: Excellent opportunities for personal growth and career progression.