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