Cook Manager

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Cook Manager, School Chef or Catering Manager looking for a better work-life balance whilst still leading a busy and rewarding kitchen operation. At Sodexo, we know school meals are more than just food - they help students focus, learn and thrive throughout the day. We're looking for a strong kitchen leader who can confidently run a high-volume school catering operation whilst creating a positive and supportive environment for both students and staff. Based at Grey Court School in Richmond, you'll lead the day-to-day catering operation, managing food production, service standards, compliance, ordering, stock control and the kitchen team. This role would suit someone who enjoys being hands-on, organised and part of a busy kitchen where no two days are the same. What Your Day-Day Could Look Like:

• Leading the kitchen team during breakfast and lunch service
• Preparing and cooking fresh meals for large numbers of students daily
• Managing stock ordering, deliveries and food costs
• Supporting and developing kitchen assistants and catering staff
• Ensuring food safety, allergen management and health & safety standards are always met
• Creating a positive dining experience for students and staff
• Working closely with the school and Sodexo management team
• Managing kitchen paperwork, audits and compliance checks
• Helping drive meal uptake, themed menus and food initiatives
  
  This is a busy, fast-paced environment, so we're looking for someone who can confidently lead from the front whilst staying calm under pressure.
This is a busy, fast-paced environment, so we're looking for someone who can confidently lead from the front whilst staying calm under pressure. What We're Looking For: We're looking for someone with strong large-scale catering experience who is confident managing both people and kitchen operations. Essential:
• Experience cooking for high volumes (100-1300 covers)
• Previous school catering, contract catering or large-scale catering experience
• Experience supervising or managing a kitchen team
• Strong understanding of food safety and kitchen compliance
• Experience managing stock, ordering and food costs
• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced kitchen
• Positive attitude with strong leadership skills
• NVQ Level 2 (or equivalent)
• Level 2 Food Safety Certificate
Desirable:
• Previous Cook Manager experience within education catering
• Experience increasing meal uptake and customer engagement
• Knowledge of allergen management and school food standards
  
  Sodexo and our Clients are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Certain roles will require applicants to undergo screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (UK) and / or Disclosure Scotland (Scotland)
• Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we are in receipt of a high number of application
Why Sodexo?

Working with Sodexo is more than a job - it's a chance to be part of something greater. You'll belong in a company and team that values you for you, where you can grow, develop and make a real difference every day. You'll also benefit from:
• School-friendly hours and excellent work-life balance
• Public holidays and Christmas off
• Full uniform provided
• Access to wellbeing and mental health support
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Discounts, cashback and financial wellbeing support
• Pension scheme
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Opportunities to progress within Sodexo