At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering operation, from menu planning to team management.
- Company: Join 14forty, a vibrant company that values diversity and talent.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and opportunities for culinary growth.
- Why this job: Make an impact with your culinary skills while leading a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Chef Manager or Head Chef with strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Exciting pathways for career development and recognised qualifications.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 30000 £ per year.
Fixed Term Chef Manager
Contract : End of November to end of July – potential to extend further
Location : Pontefract
Salary : Up to £30,000 per annum, depending on experience (pro-rota) Working Pattern : Flexible between 6am and 4pm, 5 days over 7
We’re looking for a Chef Manager who can do more than cook. This is a role for a hands‑on leader who’s as confident at the stove as they are in a client meeting, someone who understands how to run a business, manage a team, and deliver food that delights.
As the heartbeat of the site, you’ll oversee every aspect of the catering operation, from menu planning and team leadership to client relationships, budgets, compliance, and service delivery. You’ll cook with passion, lead with purpose, and run the outlet like it’s your own.
What You’ll Be Doing :
- Oversee the full catering operation from food to finance to front of house.
- Lead, develop and motivate your team to deliver excellent service every day.
- Managing food costs, margins, waste and labour with commercial precision.
- Build strong relationships with our clients and guests. Understanding their needs, exceeding expectations and delivering service with an impact.
- Ensure compliance with food safety, health & safety and company standards at all times.
- Drive consistency and quality across the kitchen and wider catering operation.
What you’ll bring to the table :
- Proven experience as a Chef Manager or Head Chef with strong operational experience.
- A passion for fresh food, seasonal ingredients, and high‑quality service delivery.
- Great communication and leadership skills—you inspire others with your energy.
- A strong sense of ownership and ability to manage client relationships.
- Strong financial acumen — you understand P&L, cost control, and business KPIs.
- Excellent communication and people management skills — you build trust, lead by example, and bring out the best in your team.
Hungry for more?
We also offer exciting culinary pathways for team members who want to level up. With real‑time mentoring, hands‑on experience, and the chance to earn recognised qualifications, it’s a delicious way to grow your skills while doing what you love.
For more information about careers at 14forty and our benefits please visit : Careers at 14forty
Compass Group UK&I wants everyone in our business to feel able to be themselves at work and to have an equal opportunity to progress their career. We want to create a culture where we respect and embrace everyone\’s talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities. Where our colleagues feel valued, can reach their full potential, and thrive – Diversity is Our Strength!
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Fixed Term Chef Manager - Pontefract employer: 14forty Careers
Contact Detail:
14forty Careers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Fixed Term Chef Manager - Pontefract
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on 14forty and their values. This way, you can tailor your answers to show how you fit right in with their vibe.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a mate or in front of the mirror. Focus on showcasing your leadership skills and passion for fresh food – that’s what they’re after!
✨Tip Number 3
Bring your A-game to the interview! Be ready to discuss your experience managing teams and budgets. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you’ve delivered excellent service and built strong client relationships.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, shoot a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows you’re genuinely interested and keeps you on their radar.
We think you need these skills to ace Fixed Term Chef Manager - Pontefract
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When writing your application, let your love for fresh ingredients and culinary creativity shine through. We want to see how you can bring that passion to our kitchen and inspire your team!
Highlight Your Leadership Skills: As a Chef Manager, you'll be leading a team, so make sure to showcase your leadership experience. Tell us about times you've motivated others or managed a successful catering operation—this is your chance to shine!
Be Clear About Your Financial Acumen: We’re looking for someone who understands the business side of things too. Don’t forget to mention your experience with budgets, cost control, and P&L management in your application—it’s key to running a successful kitchen!
Apply Through Our Website: Ready to take the plunge? Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at 14forty Careers
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with seasonal ingredients and current food trends. Be ready to discuss your favourite dishes and how you would adapt menus to meet client needs. This shows your passion for fresh food and your ability to innovate.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team in the past. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you motivated your team to deliver excellent service. This will demonstrate your strong communication and people management skills.
✨Understand the Business Side
Brush up on your financial acumen, especially around P&L, cost control, and business KPIs. Be ready to discuss how you’ve managed budgets and driven profitability in previous roles. This will highlight your operational experience and understanding of running a catering business.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Ask questions about their expectations and share your ideas on how to exceed them. This shows that you’re not just a chef but also someone who values client relationships and service delivery.