At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious meals and lead a dynamic kitchen team in schools.
- Company: Join Chartwells, a top provider of school catering services.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, travel perks, wellness classes, and discounts.
- Other info: Full-time role with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' lives through quality food and service.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Chef Manager with strong leadership and culinary skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Benefits
- Start date: 31 August 2026
- Monday to Friday schedule, term time only (47.6 weeks per year)
- Mileage or transport costs covered
- Contributory pension scheme
- Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes for career development
- Digital GP access for you and immediate family, plus additional healthcare benefits
- Travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and more
- Discounts on groceries at Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and other retailers
- Up to 44% off cinema tickets
- Cash rewards for everyday spend
- Free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
- Option to share all discounts and offers with friends and family
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare high‑quality, delicious food for clients and customers
- Oversee and implement menu changes
- Identify opportunities to improve food services
- Respond to customer feedback to consistently elevate dining experiences
- Support the creation of new menus and innovative food concepts
- Represent Chartwells and maintain a positive brand image
- Monitor inventories to keep kitchens well‑stocked
- Ensure kitchen cleaning responsibilities meet hygiene standards
- Comply with Food Handling, Hygiene and Health and Safety regulations
- Travel between schools in the Ealing and Reading area; own car preferred but public transport is acceptable
- Work a full‑time schedule on a contract basis of 47.6 weeks per year
Ideal Candidate Profile
- Proven experience as a Chef Manager, managing large numbers while delivering a personalised experience
- Strong personality with excellent people skills; able to lead, develop, train and inspire a large team
- Passion for food and customer service, with enthusiasm and a focus on customer engagement
- Experience in food innovation and development, keeping current with food trends
- Ability to communicate effectively at all levels
- Superb culinary skills
- Good financial understanding
- High standards and quality‑driven mindset
- Excellent organisational skills
- "Can do" attitude and resilience
About Us
Chartwells, part of Compass Group UK&I, is the leading provider of catering and support services in the education sector. We serve millions of nutritious and delicious meals to students and staff across the UK on a contract basis, prioritising safety, quality and child welfare. All employees are expected to share our commitment to safeguarding children and to meet rigorous background‑check requirements.
Relief Chef Manager - Ealing and Reading Schools employer: Chartwells Schools
Chartwells is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a comprehensive benefits package, including career development programmes and discounts on travel and groceries, our Relief Chef Managers enjoy a fulfilling role in shaping the dining experiences of students across Ealing and Reading schools. Join us to be part of a team that values innovation, quality, and a passion for food, all while making a positive impact in the education sector.
