Chef Manager - Contract Catering in London

This position will be based at John Howard Centre, London, working Monday to Friday from 9.00 to 5.00, with some availability on weekends.As a Chef Manager at OCS, you will take the lead in delivering high-quality catering services within a public sector environment. You will be responsible for managing kitchen operations, leading and developing your team, and ensuring food quality, service delivery and compliance are consistently delivered to the highest standards.This is a leadership role where you will drive performance, maintain strong client relationships and ensure the catering operation runs efficiently, safely and in line with contractual and regulatory requirements.As part of your role, your key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:Lead and develop the catering team, promoting high standards of performance, presentation and customer serviceOversee the day-to-day kitchen operation, ensuring food quality, consistency and service excellenceEnsure compliance with all client, company and legal requirements, including Health & Safety and food hygiene standardsManage budgets across labour, food and materials, ensuring cost control and efficient resource useMaintain effective cash handling and financial controls where applicableConduct accurate stock takes and manage stock levels effectivelyEnsure all statutory documentation, audits and compliance records are maintainedFoster a positive team culture, supporting training, development and performance managementThe ideal candidate should meet the following criteria:Must have the Right to Work in the UK and willingness to undergo an enhanced DBS checkProven experience in a catering management or chef management roleStrong understanding of budget control, cost management and P&L performanceGood knowledge of food safety, Health & Safety and compliance requirementsLeadership experience, with the ability to manage, motivate and develop teamsStrong organisational and communication skillsAbility to manage a fast-paced catering operation and prioritise workload effectivelyDesirable:Membership of the Institute of Hospitality (IOH) or Healthcare Catering Association (HCA) (or working towards)Intermediate or Advanced Food Hygiene certificationHealth & Safety qualifications (e.g. IOSH)Catering qualifications such as City & Guilds 706/1 & 706/2 or equivalentExperience within public sector or healthcare catering environmentsWhy join OCS? OCS are ranked 36th on Glassdoor’s Best Companies to Work For in 2025, reflecting our commitment to creating a workplace where our colleagues feel supported and valued. Through the OCS Academy, you’ll have access to learning opportunities that support your personal development and career progression. With the Hapi app, you can access a wide range of discounts, rewards and wellbeing resources.About The Company:OCS UK & Ireland is a leading facilities management company with 50,000+ colleagues and a turnover in excess of 2bn. We deliver innovative, award-winning services within facilities management, hard services, cleaning, security and catering.Our mission is to make people and places the best they can be for our colleagues, customers and the communities we serve. Why Work for OCS?Digital Learning: The OCS Academy offers digital courses and resources to help you build skills and grow your career. Retail Perks With our Hapi app, you can gain access to exclusive discounts, rewards and wellbeing resources.Professional Growth: 600+ live learners across UK&I — Empowering colleagues with further development and qualifications!Flexible Pay: Access a portion of earned wages before payday with our Wagestream App! (Contract Specific)How to Apply:If you are interested in joining a business that encourages professional development, career progression and the chance to work with inspirational people then please click apply and register your interest! We offer an inclusive and welcoming environment and actively encourage applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or age.Monday - Friday)Not SpecifiedWorking DaysMonday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, FridayWorking Days is a required fieldIs a Driving License Required?Driving licence required