Chef Manager

Chef Manager

Salary: £25,338 per annum

Hours: 37.5 hours per week (Term-time only, 39 weeks per year)

Schedule: Monday to Friday (No weekends, no late nights, closed over school holidays)

About the Client

Here at Pineapple Recruitment, we are recruiting on behalf of a leading independent contract caterer specialising in the education sector. Recognising that food is energy, education, and community, they are dedicated to serving creative, highly nutritious dishes made from fresh ingredients. They place immense value on their team, offering a supportive, collaborative environment where employee well-being and growth are top priorities.

The Role & Responsibilities

This is a dynamic, hands-on role taking complete operational and culinary leadership of a school kitchen. You will lead from the front, drive menu innovation, and ensure an unparalleled dining experience for students and staff. Key duties include:

• Culinary Vision & Service: Oversee daily kitchen operations to ensure the delivery of high-quality, nutritious meals and exceptional service.

• Menu Innovation: Own menu development, introducing creative flair while driving continuous culinary improvement.

• Compliance & Standards: Act as the standard-bearer for all operations, ensuring rigorous adherence to Food Safety, Hygiene, and Health & Safety regulations.

• Team Development: Mentor and support staff growth, fostering a progressive, high-performing team culture.

• Financial Control: Manage all controllable costs (stock, food, labour) to ensure efficiency and control budgets.

• Site Performance: Conduct regular audits and drive customer engagement through creative monthly promotions and special events.

About You

We are seeking an ambitious, passionate leader with:

• Proven experience leading and inspiring kitchen teams in a fast-paced food service environment.

• A strong passion for fresh ingredient cooking and nutritious menu development.

• Comprehensive, up-to-date knowledge of Health & Safety, Food Safety, and Hygiene regulations.

• Solid commercial understanding, with the ability to analyse labour costs, waste, and operational reports to optimise performance.

• Adaptability, strong communication, and a hands-on approach.

Benefits

• Work-Life Balance: 37.5 hours per week, term-time only (39 weeks per year) with no weekends or late nights.

• Career Growth: Access to a dedicated Learning & Development team offering apprenticeships, qualifications, and clear internal progression paths.

• Supportive Environment: Work alongside a passionate team committed to collaboration and culinary excellence.

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

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