Catering Manager

South East England (multi-site or single school contract)

This role sits within a leading UK contract catering provider delivering food services to the education sector. The Catering Manager will lead the delivery of a high-quality, compliant, and commercially successful school catering operation. The focus is on fresh, nutritious food, strong client relationships, and driving meal uptake through innovation and engagement.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Delivery

• Manage the full catering operation within the school(s), ensuring consistent high standards
• Deliver fresh, seasonal menus aligned with School Food Standards
• Ensure food quality, presentation, and service meet company and client expectations
• Oversee stock management, ordering, and supplier compliance
• Implement branded food concepts and promotional activity

People Management

• Lead, motivate, and develop a catering team to deliver excellent service
• Manage recruitment, onboarding, training, and ongoing development
• Plan rotas in line with business needs and labour targets
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and performance-driven team culture

Financial & Commercial Performance

• Manage site P&L, including food cost, labour, and overheads
• Drive meal uptake, retail sales, and revenue opportunities
• Monitor KPIs and take action to improve performance
• Minimise waste and maximise efficiency

Compliance & Standards

• Ensure full compliance with food safety systems based on Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP)
• Maintain high standards in line with Food Standards Agency guidance
• Ensure allergen procedures are rigorously followed
• Complete audits, inspections, and documentation accurately
• Uphold company policies on Health & Safety, COSHH, and safeguarding

Client & Customer Engagement

• Build strong relationships with school leadership teams and stakeholders
• Engage pupils through themed days, promotions, and food education initiatives
• Actively gather and respond to feedback to improve service
• Support wider wellbeing and healthy eating agendas within schools

Person Specification

Essential

• Proven experience managing a catering operation, ideally within education or high-volume environments
• Strong leadership and team development skills
• Commercial awareness with experience managing budgets and driving sales
• Solid understanding of food safety and compliance requirements
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills

Desirable

• NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent) in Professional Cookery or Hospitality
• Level 3 Food Safety qualification
• Experience within contract catering or multi-site operations
• Passion for nutrition and improving food experiences for young people

Key Competencies

• Commercial mindset
• Leadership and accountability
• Customer focus
• Attention to detail
• Innovation and adaptability

Working Pattern

• Term-time working, typically Monday to Friday
• Early starts required; occasional evening or event support
• Potential travel across sites within the South East

Safeguarding

This role requires an enhanced DBS check. A strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is essential.

Success Measures

• Growth in meal uptake and customer satisfaction
• Delivery of financial targets and cost controls
• High audit and compliance scores
• Strong client relationships and contract retention
• Team engagement and retention