This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about excellent food, strong operational management, and driving service improvements within a thriving academy environment. This is a Fixed Term Contract for 6 months.
About the Role
As our Catering Manager, you will:
- Oversee the day-to-day catering operations, ensuring all meals meet National Nutritional Standards.
- Lead, support, and supervise catering staff, including rota management, appraisals and staff development.
- Manage stock, resources, budgeting and cost control to deliver a value-for-money service without compromising quality.
- Develop menus, maintain high standards of food presentation, and ensure a welcoming dining experience.
- Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety, food hygiene, COSHH and safeguarding procedures.
- Build strong relationships with external clients and help grow the department’s commercial opportunities.
- Promote the academy and Trust values in all areas of your practice.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee food preparation, cooking and service.
- Negotiate with authorised suppliers to secure best value contracts.
- Manage catering finances, including revenue, expenditure, stock control and financial reporting.
- Ensure safe operation and maintenance of all kitchen equipment.
- Manage catering delivery arrangements to external academies during term time.
- Conduct risk assessments, maintain cleanliness, and uphold high hygiene standards.
- Support marketing efforts, create promotional materials and liaise with potential new clients.
About You
We are looking for someone who:
- Has proven experience in catering leadership or kitchen management.
- Demonstrates strong organisational, communication and people-management skills.
- Is committed to providing high-quality, nutritious meals.
- Understands financial management in a catering setting.
- Is proactive, reliable and able to work under pressure.
- Shares our values and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our students.
What We have to Offer:
- A visible and approachable senior leadership team and an enthusiastic and committed team of teachers and support staff.
- A strong support network both within the school and across Authentic Education.
- All staff are part of a professional learning community in which evidence-informed CPD is designed to meet individual needs.
- Strong potential for career progression.
- A culture that respects work-life balance and an ongoing commitment to wellbeing with a dedicated Wellbeing Champion.
- An Employee Assistance Programme including in the moment support and counselling sessions with an external provider.
- Staff benefits include free eye testing for DSE users through Specsavers, free will writing through Dunham McCarthy Solicitors and reduced-price corporate gym membership through BH Live.
- A competitive pension through Teachers’ Pensions or The Local Government Pension Scheme for support staff.
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Contact Details:
Authentic Education Group Limited Recruitment Team
