At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the catering team to create delicious meals and positive dining experiences for students.
- Company: Join Sodexo, a company that values individuality and empowers its teams.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and free lunch during shifts.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and opportunities for career growth await you.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' health and happiness every day.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering management and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 26000 £ per year.
Location: Ysgol Gymunedol Penweddig, Llanbadarn Rd, Aberystwyth SY23 3QN
Shift Pattern: Monday – Thursday 7:00 am – 3:00 pm, Friday 7:00 am – 3:30 pm
Hours: 38 hours per week, daytime hours aligned with school meal services, with approx. 1 hour flexibility on start times
Salary: £24,000 – £26,000 (equated) actual rate is advertised + excellent Sodexo benefits
Term Time: Yes (Term time only, 39.4 weeks, working contract paid over 52 weeks + 4.8 weeks holiday pay)
At Sodexo, we believe in delivering outstanding service, fostering meaningful experiences, and empowering our teams to thrive. We’re looking for a passionate and motivated Catering Manager to become an integral part of our Welsh Speaking team at Ysgol Gyfun Gymunedol Penweddig School. If you’re ready to drive excellence in school catering and create positive dining experiences for students and staff, this is the opportunity for you.
About the Role
As Catering Manager you will oversee the daily catering operation within the school, ensuring high-quality food is prepared and served safely and efficiently. You will be responsible for:
- Preparing and serving food during break and lunchtime services
- Supporting additional catering requirements such as buffet-style meals for school events or third-party lettings
- Managing stock levels, ordering, and kitchen records
- Maintaining food safety standards and compliance with HACCP, allergen management, COSHH, and food hygiene regulations
Your impact will be felt every day as you collaborate with a team dedicated to help ensure smooth operations, minimal waste, and an excellent student experience.
What We're Looking For
- Proven experience in a catering or kitchen management role
- A catering qualification is preferred
- Strong organisational, communication, and leadership skills with the ability to motivate a team
- Knowledge of food safety, allergen management, and health & safety compliance
- Experience managing stock, ordering, and maintaining kitchen records
- A proactive, solution‑oriented mindset with the ability to work independently and meet service deadlines in a fast‑paced environment
- Flexibility to adapt to changing service requirements within a school environment
About The School
Ysgol Gyfun Gymunedol Penweddig is a Welsh‑speaking school with approximately 600 pupils, ranging from 11 to 18 years old, supported by around 50 teaching staff. The school is easily accessible, situated on a regular bus route, and provides free on‑site car parking for staff. Lunch and morning break supervision is provided by school staff, with breakfast‑type snacks available in the morning, and a full lunch service during your shift. The school operates a cashless card payment system, allowing parents to upload money onto their children’s cards. We also offer flexible working hours within reason to help you balance work and life.
What We Offer
At Sodexo, this is more than just a job—it’s your chance to be part of something greater. We celebrate individuality, encourage purpose‑driven work, and empower you to succeed on your own terms. Here’s what you can expect when you join us:
- A competitive salary & excellent benefits package.
- Opportunities for career growth and development.
- A diverse, supportive, and inclusive workplace.
- The opportunity to make a real difference by supporting healthy food choices for students
- Lunch provided during your work shift
Additional Perks & Benefits
- Unlimited access to an online mental health and wellbeing support platform.
- An Employee Assistance Programme for legal, financial, and personal support.
- 24/7 access to a virtual GP service.
- Exclusive discounts for you, your family, and friends through the Sodexo Discounts Scheme.
- Membership in the Mercer Aspire Pension Plan to help you save for your future.
- Learning and development opportunities to enhance your career growth.
- A Bike to Work Scheme, supporting both your fitness and the environment.
Ready to Be Part of Something Greater? If you're looking for an opportunity where you can bring your passion, skills, and ambition to a company that truly values you, then this is it. Apply today and take the next step in your Sodexo journey. Friendly Team. Vibrant communities. Exciting careers.
Catering Manager in Aberystwyth employer: Sodexo Group
At Sodexo, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that empowers our team members to thrive. As a Catering Manager at Ysgol Gyfun Gymunedol Penweddig, you'll enjoy a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and opportunities for career growth while making a meaningful impact on students' dining experiences. With flexible working hours and a commitment to employee wellbeing, Sodexo is the perfect place for those looking to balance their professional and personal lives while contributing to a vibrant community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Manager in Aberystwyth
✨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 Sodexo Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Sodexo Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Sodexo Group 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 Catering Manager in Aberystwyth
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 Sodexo Group 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 Sodexo Group
✨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!
