At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering team and deliver fresh, delicious meals to colleagues.
- Company: Join Compass Group UK&I, a leader in catering for Defence and Government sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme, and exclusive discounts on travel and shopping.
- Other info: Monday to Friday hours with no evening shifts and opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Shape a new catering experience while managing a close-knit team in a modern environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Chef Manager or similar role with strong leadership skills required.
We’re recruiting a Chef Manager for an exciting opportunity at Rolls‑Royce Barnoldswick, leading the mobilisation of a new catering offer launching in November. This is a fantastic role for an experienced chef with strong leadership and organisational skills who enjoys being hands‑on while managing a small, high‑performing team. You’ll be responsible for the day‑to‑day operation of a busy lunch‑focused catering unit serving approximately 300-400 colleagues on site, delivering fresh sandwiches, salads, grab‑and‑go options, and an excellent customer experience.
The operation will also include 24/7 smart vending facilities, with breakfast service currently under review. Leading a team of three, you'll take ownership of food quality, compliance, stock management, financial controls, and all associated administration to ensure a successful and smooth operation from day one.
What you’ll be doing:
- Leading the successful mobilisation and ongoing management of the catering operation
- Preparing and delivering a fresh food offer, including sandwiches, salads, and lunch menu items
- Managing the daily operation and service delivery to meet client expectations
- Leading, motivating, and developing a team of three colleagues
- Managing food ordering, stock control, inventory, and supplier relationships
- Monitoring food costs and managing budgets in line with financial targets
- Overseeing the operation of smart vending solutions and ensuring product availability
- Maintaining excellent standards of food presentation, quality, and customer service
- Completing all required bookwork, reporting, audits, and compliance documentation
- Ensuring full compliance with Food Safety, Health & Safety, and company procedures
- Building strong relationships with the client and acting as the key on‑site catering contact
What we're looking for:
- Previous experience as a Chef Manager, Head Chef, or Senior Chef within contract catering, workplace catering, or a similar environment
- Strong leadership skills with experience managing and developing teams
- Experience managing food costs, budgets, stock control, and wastage
- Confident completing administration, reporting, audits, and compliance paperwork
- Excellent organisational and time‑management skills
- A hands‑on management style with a passion for delivering great food and service
- Experience mobilising new contracts or implementing new catering offers would be advantageous
- Knowledge of food safety legislation and catering compliance requirements
- Reliable and able to travel to site consistently
Why Join Us?
- Monday to Friday working pattern with no evening service
- Opportunity to lead an exciting new catering mobilisation
- Manage a small, close‑knitted team in a modern workplace environment
- Autonomy to shape and develop a fresh food offer
- Competitive salary and development opportunities within a growing business
We ensure you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:
- Contributory pension scheme
- Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
- Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
- Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more
- Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and many more
- Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
- Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
- Un‑wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
- You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families
About Us:
Part of Compass Group UK&I, ESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland. We support 250+ UK military establishments, high profile police, secure environments and government sites, along with a range of onshore and offshore facilities including platforms, drilling rigs, floatels and offices for the energy sector. We know that a friendly face makes all the difference, so we look for people who are passionate about delivering excellent customer service, at all levels, to join our teams. Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!
Chef Manager NEW Defence Posted today £32,448 per year Barnoldswick Operations employer: Chartwells Independent
Compass Group UK&I is an exceptional employer located in Winchester, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises individuality and personal development. As a part-time Cafe Supervisor, you'll enjoy competitive pay, flexible hours, and the chance to advance your career within a leading hospitality organisation that values great customer service and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef Manager NEW Defence Posted today £32,448 per year Barnoldswick Operations
✨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 Chartwells Independent. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Chartwells Independent
Don't be shy about reaching out to Chartwells Independent 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!
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 Chartwells Independent 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 Chartwells Independent
✨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!
