At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the transformation of our dining experience and oversee food operations for nearly 2,000 people daily.
- Company: Alleyn's School, a top co-educational independent school in London.
- Benefits: Generous benefits, access to outstanding facilities, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join us in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape a brand new dining hall and make a real impact on student health and sustainability.
- Qualifications: Experience in large-scale catering operations and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Alleyn's School is seeking an exceptional Head of Food Experience and Operations because this isn't a typical school catering role. Then again, we're not a typical school. Alleyn's is Co-Educational Independent School of the Year, and we think about food the way a leading university does. Gut health, sustainability, food trends, allergen management, technology, nutrition. These aren't buzzwords here, they're things we genuinely care about. And right now, we're in the middle of something extraordinary. Project Crucible is our once-in-a-generation transformation of the Alleyn's dining experience. We're demolishing our existing dining hall and building a sector-leading, food court-inspired space in a fully technology-enabled environment. The new hall opens in September 2028, and this role will help shape it from the ground up. Before that, you'll lead the challenge of feeding nearly 2,000 people a day across multiple temporary outlets during construction. It's complex, it's high-profile, and it's a genuinely rare opportunity.
What you'll be doing:
- Overseeing the entire food experience for the school, a lunch offer for nearly 1,500 pupils aged four to eighteen, staff dining, pre- and post-school catering, and an extensive events programme from food platters and large receptions to VIP dining.
- Leading operations across dispersed, temporary catering sites during Project Crucible, including our grab-and-go offer and interim kitchen provision.
- Playing a key role in the design and fit-out of the new dining hall, shaping kitchen layouts, finishes, technology, and the food court concept.
- Supporting and guiding the Chef Team on menus that work across all ages, locations, and dietary needs, with a focus on gut health, nutrition, allergen management, and sustainability.
- Building and leading a high-performing team: rotas, training, and all the operational and administrative frameworks that keep a complex operation running.
What we're looking for:
- Proven experience leading a large-scale catering or hospitality operation, you understand how to feed a lot of people, brilliantly, day after day.
- You don't need to be a chef, but you do need to understand kitchens, menus, and what makes a food offer truly great.
- Strong people leadership and operational confidence.
- HR processes, compliance, budgets, and contracts are second nature to you.
- Curiosity and ambition around food: trends, technology, health, and sustainability genuinely excite you.
- The resilience and adaptability to thrive in a fast-moving, high-expectation environment, especially during a period of significant change.
Why join us?
- A career-defining opportunity to help design and launch a brand new, premier dining hall and events space.
- Access to outstanding facilities including a swimming pool, gym and library.
- Generous benefits including lunches, employee assistance programme, and private healthcare options.
- Cycle-to-work scheme, tech scheme, and local business discounts.
The deadline for applications is midnight on Thursday 16 July 2026. Alleyn's is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check. Alleyn's is an Equal Opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all candidates who meet the requirements for the position and are especially keen to hear from those in minority groups currently underrepresented at the school. We celebrate diversity and the many benefits it brings to our community.
Head of Food Experience and Operations in London employer: ALLEYNS SCHOOL DULWICH
Alleyn's School is an exceptional employer that offers a unique opportunity to lead the transformation of our dining experience in a vibrant, co-educational environment. With a focus on sustainability, nutrition, and innovation, we provide our employees with generous benefits, outstanding facilities, and a supportive work culture that fosters professional growth and development. Join us in shaping a sector-leading food experience while enjoying a career-defining role in a community that values diversity and excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Food Experience and Operations in London
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like ALLEYNS SCHOOL DULWICH. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to ALLEYNS SCHOOL DULWICH
Don't be shy about reaching out to ALLEYNS SCHOOL DULWICH directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Food Experience and Operations in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about ALLEYNS SCHOOL DULWICH and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at ALLEYNS SCHOOL DULWICH
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
