Chef Manager

We are looking for a passionate and experienced Chef Manager to lead our catering operation at Drayton Manor High School in Ealing. This is a fantastic opportunity to join Aramark UK, where you’ll play a key role in delivering high-quality, nutritious meals that support the health and wellbeing of students and staff.

As Chef Manager, you’ll take ownership of the kitchen, leading a dedicated team to provide an excellent food service while driving engagement and meal uptake across the school. You’ll combine your culinary expertise, leadership skills, and eye for detail to ensure meals are both appealing and compliant with School Food Standards.

If you’re a motivated leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and wants to make a real difference in a school community—while enjoying a great work-life balance—this could be the perfect role for you.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all employees and workers to share this commitment . All roles are subject to safer recruitment checks, including references and an enhanced DBS check, in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE).

What's in it for you:

• Competitive salary of up to £40,927.32 depending on experience
• Generous annual leave that increases in line with service, with the opportunity to buy extra
• Life assurance and pension scheme
• Benefits app: access to 100s of discounts, free mortgage advice, cycle to work scheme, health cash plans, online GP appointments, and our Employee Assistance Programme
• FOOD! Opportunities to attend in-house events and try the culinary genius of our teams (we are a food business after all!)

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day running of the school kitchen, ensuring efficient service and high-quality food production.
• Plan, prepare, and serve balanced meals that comply with School Food Standards and meet dietary and allergen requirements.
• Supervise, train, and motivate kitchen staff, ensuring high performance, engagement, and adherence to company standards.
• Design seasonal, cost-effective menus that promote healthy eating and cater to diverse cultural and dietary needs.
• Monitor food spend, manage stock ordering, minimise waste, and ensure financial targets are achieved.
• Maintain full compliance with food safety legislation, HACCP procedures, and allergen regulations, ensuring a safe kitchen environment.
• Engage with pupils and staff to promote school meals, gather feedback, and enhance the overall dining experience.
• Adhere to safeguarding policies and uphold a professional, child-focused approach aligned with the school’s ethos.

Key Requirements:

• Proven experience in a Chef Manager, Head Chef, or senior catering role, ideally within schools or contract catering.
• Strong understanding of School Food Standards, healthy eating principles, and special dietary requirements.
• In-depth knowledge of food hygiene regulations, HACCP, and allergen legislation (including Natasha’s Law).
• Ability to lead, motivate, and develop a team, ensuring high performance and a positive working environment.
• Experience managing budgets, controlling costs, and maintaining stock efficiently to meet financial targets.
• NVQ Level 2/3 in Professional Cookery (or equivalent) and Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate (essential), with allergen awareness and safeguarding training.