At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative food concepts and support school catering teams across the South East.
- Company: Join Compass Group UK & Ireland, a diverse and inclusive employer.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, and exclusive discounts on travel and shopping.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives through delicious and nutritious meals.
- Qualifications: Passion for food, strong culinary background, and excellent leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 21 - 21 £ per hour.
This job is with Compass Group UK & Ireland, an inclusive employer and a member of myGwork – the largest global platform for the LGBTQ+ business community.
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
Role Overview
This role plays a pivotal part in supporting the Chartwells Operations Team to ensure our school catering teams fully understand their responsibilities and deliver against clear standards and expectations. You will drive a consistent, elevated and innovative food offer across all schools - from counter service to hospitality and event catering. The role ensures modular menus are implemented using The Source recipes, hospitality brochures are relevant and user-friendly, and the "Beyond the Kitchen" programme is embedded successfully across every site. You will lead the development of kitchen teams, champion new food concepts, and ensure our food offer remains fresh, inspiring, compliant, and commercially successful.
Location & Coverage
The role will cover a broad geographical area including: London, Reading, and Southampton; Midlands; Kent; occasional travel to Cornwall and Plymouth. Regular travel across sites is required as part of the role.
Contract & Working Pattern
47.6 weeks per year, flexible working aligned to business needs and site support.
Salary & Benefits
Salary equivalent to approximately £40,000 per annum, hourly rate equivalent: £21 per hour, company car provided.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the delivery and presentation of food across schools, encouraging teams to showcase their offer and host tastings with clients.
- Engage clients in meaningful conversations around food quality, innovation, and school strategy.
- Create and implement new culinary ideas such as pop-ups, BBQ events, tasting events, and themed food activations.
- Develop innovative, School Food Standards-compliant regional dishes for inclusion on menus.
- Ensure modular menus are implemented correctly using approved recipes from The Source.
- Ensure every school has a relevant and accessible hospitality brochure.
Team Development & Training
- Train culinary teams across all craft levels, reviewing kitchen operations and developing capability at every level.
- Deliver bi-annual unit manager training to support new menu launches and updates.
- Support and coach teams through chef challenges and provide short-term relief support where required.
- Ensure "Tasting Kitchen" and "Recipe Clinics" are embedded across the estate.
Beyond the Kitchen Programme
- Support and guide schools in embedding the Beyond the Kitchen programme.
- Ensure activities are planned, diarised, and delivered consistently.
- Liaise with the Nutrition Team where required.
- Personally deliver selected Beyond the Kitchen activities throughout the year.
Operational & Strategic Support
- Support mobilisation of new contracts.
- Oversee planning of large-scale hospitality events within schools.
- Review and update school strategies during each visit.
- Maintain a strong understanding of purchasing compliance, sourcing, and commercial performance.
Key Relationships
- Chartwells Culinary Director
- Managing Director
- Senior Leadership Team
- Head of Operations
- Regional Managers
- Compass Group UK Food Service Team
- School Clients
- Kitchen Teams
- Catering Managers / General Managers
- Unit Managers
About You
- Genuine passion for food and education catering
- Strong knowledge of food trends and culinary development
- Creative foodservice background
- Experience with purchasing, sourcing, modular menus and recipe systems
- Proven track record of developing and implementing food concepts
- Experience working in fast-paced, forward-thinking environments
- Excellent communication and influencing skills
- Strong coaching and leadership ability
- Ability to build relationships across diverse stakeholder groups
- Strong project management skills
- Knowledge of varied food production methods
- Passion-led approach to school visits, always showcasing the very best food
About Us
Part of Compass Group UK&I, Chartwells is the leading provider of catering and support services to the education sector. For over a quarter of a century, Chartwells has been focusing on helping those in education to build strong bodies, sharp minds and lead long healthy lives. Every week, Chartwells serves millions of nutritious and delicious meals to pupils and students in primary and secondary schools, academies, independent schools, colleges, and universities across the UK. Chartwells is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all employees to share this commitment. Any offer of employment will be subject to successfully completing pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS disclosure and a Children's Barred List check. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and we ask applicants to declare all previous convictions and cautions in order to assess their suitability to work with children.
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!
School Regional Development Chef (South East) employer: Compass Group UK & Ireland
Compass Group UK & Ireland is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises inclusivity and employee well-being. With comprehensive benefits including a contributory pension scheme, access to digital healthcare, and exclusive discounts, employees are supported both personally and professionally. The role of School Regional Development Chef provides unique opportunities for career growth through innovative culinary development and team training, all while making a meaningful impact in the education sector across the South East.
Contact Details:
Compass Group UK & Ireland Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Regional Development Chef (South East)
✨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 Compass Group UK & Ireland. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Compass Group UK & Ireland
Don't be shy about reaching out to Compass Group UK & Ireland 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 School Regional Development Chef (South East)
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 Compass Group UK & Ireland 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 Compass Group UK & Ireland
✨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!
