Kitchen Manager Cookham Dean

Caterlink is the education sector catering specialist. For over 20 years, the Company has delivered fresh food solutions to pupils and staff at Primary Schools, Secondary Schools and Colleges across the UK. The company caters more than 1,000,000 meals a week. Our “Fresh Food Policy” is the foundation of our success and growth in the market coupled with a desire to truly deliver on the promises we make to our clients and support our site-based teams.

We are seeking a talented and experienced Kitchen Manager to join our team in Cookham, United Kingdom. As the Kitchen Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of our kitchen operations, ensuring high-quality food preparation, and maintaining excellent standards of hygiene and efficiency.

• Lead and manage the kitchen team, fostering a positive and productive work environment
• Develop and implement innovative menu items, considering local food trends and seasonal ingredients
• Oversee inventory management, including ordering supplies and managing stock levels
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and sanitation
• Manage kitchen budgets, control costs, and optimize profitability
• Train and mentor kitchen staff to enhance their skills and maintain consistent food quality
• Collaborate with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless service and customer satisfaction
• Handle administrative tasks such as scheduling, payroll, and performance evaluations

• Proven experience (3-5 years minimum) in kitchen management or as a head chef
• Culinary degree or equivalent culinary training
• Current Food Safety Certification (e.g., ServSafe)
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent culinary expertise and knowledge of menu planning and development
• Proficiency in inventory management and cost control
• Solid understanding of food safety regulations and best practices
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and make quick, effective decisions
• Familiarity with British cuisine and local food trends
• Proficiency in using kitchen management software and Microsoft Office suite

There are many advantages to working for us including:

• Career development opportunities
• HIT Apprenticeships for all experience levels
• Work/life balance – term-time only and no weekends!
• Employee Discount Platform for savings at supermarkets, cinema, restaurants and many more!
• Employee Assistance Program 
• Pension scheme