Chef/Catering Manager

About the role:

Our academy is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Chef/Catering Manager who shares our commitment to making a positive impact on our students' lives through nutritious and delicious meals.

In this role, you will lead our catering team in the creation and delivery of high-quality, healthy, and appealing meals that meet the diverse dietary needs of our students and staff. Your culinary expertise and managerial skills will ensure the efficient and smooth operation of our kitchen, while your enthusiasm and creativity will foster a culture of appreciation for good food and healthy eating within our academy community.

Responsibilities

?Culinary Excellence

• Plan, prepare, and present nutritious, well-balanced meals that meet dietary requirements and preferences.
• Develop innovative menus reflecting seasonal produce, cultural diversity, and current food trends.
• Ensure high standards of quality, taste, and presentation, prioritising fresh ingredients.
• Encourage team and student input for a varied, interesting three-week menu cycle.
• Conduct pre- and post-service briefs and maintain a spotless kitchen ensuring food safety compliance is maintained.
• Oversee and execute hospitality requests.

Leadership and Management

Lead, motivate, and manage the catering team, fostering a positive and collaborative environment.

Oversee recruitment, training, and development of staff, ensuring high performance and job satisfaction.

Implement efficient kitchen operations, including inventory management, budgeting, and cost control.

Promote efficiency, budget awareness, and modern cooking techniques with a positive and flexible attitude.

?Health and Safety

• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, food safety standards, and allergy management protocols.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised kitchen environment.
• Conduct regular hygiene and safety audits and inspections.
• Train and supervise employees in Health & Safety policies and best practices, including induction and hazardous equipment safety training

?Community Engagement

Promote healthy eating and nutrition awareness among students, staff, and parents.

Organise and participate in events such as cooking demonstrations, nutrition workshops, and themed food days.

Support our Volunteer Food Cycle program with enthusiasm to support our community.

Collaborate with the academy's leadership team to support school community well-being.

?Sustainability and Innovation

• Implement sustainable practices, such as reducing food waste, sourcing local ingredients, and minimising single-use plastics.
• Stay updated on industry trends and seek opportunities for innovation in catering services.

?Finance Management

Maintain appropriate food stock levels and ensure stock is used within date.

Ensure accurate portioning, recipe adherence, and dish specifications.

Maintain and manage catering budgets.

?

Qualifications

Right to work in the UK

Level 3 Food Hygiene and Safety

NVQ or City & Guilds in Professional Cookery

Diploma in Culinary Arts (desirable)

First Aid (desirable)

Personal Characteristics

Passion and Belief:Genuine passion for and belief in the mission and the Academy Culture Pyramid.

Flexibility and Optimism: Operates with a spirit of flexibility and optimism for opportunity.

Solution-Focused Attitude:Solution-focused with a can-do attitude.

Interpersonal Skills:Personable, helpful, approachable, and positive, with the ability to stay calm and diplomatic under pressure.

Professional Communication:Professional etiquette in all forms of communication.

Interpersonal Skills with Children and Adults:Excellent interpersonal skills with both children and adults.

Adaptability:Able to take direction as well as initiative when required.

Creative and Curious: Creative, curious, with a can-do approach and a growth mindset.

Attention to Detail:Exacting standards and a keen eye for detail.

Desire for Growth:Keen to learn and further develop skills and knowledge.

Other

This post is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.

Commitment to equality of opportunity and the safeguarding and welfare of all students

Ark is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people in its academies. In order to meet this responsibility, its academies follow a rigorous selection process to discourage and screen out unsuitable applicants.

How to apply:

Apply via our online portal with a CV and cover letter.

About us:

Ark is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people in its academies. In order to meet this responsibility, its academies follow a rigorous selection process to discourage and screen out unsuitable applicants.

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