Relief Chef Manager - Brentwood

About us:

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.

Their commitment to quality care for both clients and children has fuelled rapid growth, and they are looking for passionate people like you to join their journey.

The role:

Our client is seeking an ambitious Relief Chef Manager, ready to take full operational and financial responsibility for the catering facility 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!

Your responsibilities will include:

• Financial Control: Managing and improving all controllable costs, including stock, food and labour.
• Team Leadership: Lead, coach, train and inspire your kitchen team 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:

Our client is looking for a passionate leader who is ready to drive excellence and profitability. If you’re hungry for a role where you can fully own the operation, you’ll need:

• A strong understanding of Gross Profit (GP) management and the strategic know-how to smash sales targets.
• You have fantastic craft skills with a genuine commitment to using fresh ingredients to deliver exceptional quality food.
• Motivational Leader: Proven experience in line management—you know how to coach, motivate, and inspire to develop a high-performing team.
• Excellent knowledge of health and safety practices.
• A full UK driving licence
• A qualification like OND/HND is a bonus, but your on-the-job experience is what we’re truly after

Why apply?

Great Work-Life Balance:

You’ll work Monday to Friday during school term time - that means no late nights, no weekends and no working at Christmas!

• 37.5 hours per week
• 44 weeks per year
• Up to £35,000 per annum

Career Growth and Development:

• Join a fast-growing, ambitious company. We have no ceiling in terms of where you can take your career in catering.
• Benefit from a dedicated Learning & Development team offering apprenticeship and training courses to help you constantly develop your skills.

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

Please note: All staff must share our clients commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children/young people. The company will seek an enhanced DBS disclosure.