At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a team to deliver exceptional dining experiences for students.
- Company: Join Sodexo, a company that values individuality and purpose-driven work.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, mental health support, and exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives through nutritious meals and engaging food experiences.
- Qualifications: Catering management experience and a passion for food and customer service.
The predicted salary is between 17 - 17 £ per hour.
Location: The Deanery CE Academy School, Peglars Way, Swindon, SN1 7DA (with responsibility for Kingfisher School located opposite)
Days/Shift Pattern: Monday - Friday
Working Hours: 7:30am - 3:00pm (including a 30-minute unpaid break)
Total Hours Per Week: 37.5 Hours
Salary: £17.00 per hour (£26,007 per annum) + Sodexo Benefits
Contract Type: Permanent - Full Time, Term Time Only
At Sodexo, we believe in delivering exceptional dining experiences, fostering meaningful relationships, and empowering our teams to thrive. We are seeking an experienced and passionate Catering Manager to lead our catering operations across The Deanery CE Academy and Kingfisher School in Swindon.
About the Opportunity
This is an exciting opportunity for a confident and organised Catering Manager to oversee two school catering operations, ensuring students receive nutritious, high-quality meals whilst delivering excellent customer service and maintaining strong financial performance. Based at The Deanery CE Academy, you will also hold responsibility for the catering provision at Kingfisher School, located opposite the main site. You will work closely with school leadership teams, Sodexo management, and your catering colleagues to deliver a service that exceeds expectations. This role would suit an experienced Catering Manager, Cook Manager, School Chef Manager, or an ambitious chef looking to take the next step into management.
What You'll Be Doing
- Leading the catering operation across both schools, including:
- Organising and overseeing the preparation, presentation, and service of all meals to agreed service standards
- Supporting and developing a team across 2 sites, including 1 x Cook Supervisor, 1 x Kitchen Supervisor and 4 x Food Service Assistants
- Driving meal uptake and enhancing the customer dining experience
- Creating engaging food offers, themed events, and seasonal promotions
- Supporting curriculum‑based food activities, including Discovery Tables and classroom tastings
- Implementing marketing campaigns and promotional activities in line with Sodexo's marketing calendar
- Managing stock control, ordering, deliveries, and supplier relationships
- Monitoring labour costs, food costs, and overall financial performance against budget
- Maintaining accurate payroll, administration, and weekly reporting
- Conducting daily service reviews and monitoring key performance indicators
- Building strong relationships with school leadership teams, staff, students, and Sodexo colleagues
- Ensuring full compliance with Food for Life standards and supporting annual audits
- Maintaining the highest standards of food safety, allergen management, health & safety, COSHH, and hygiene compliance
- Leading recruitment, induction, training, coaching, and performance management of team members
- Organising hospitality and special events where required
What We're Looking For
We are looking for someone who is passionate about food, customer service, and developing people whilst maintaining exceptional operational standards.
Essential
- Previous catering management, supervisory, or senior chef experience
- NVQ Level 2 Chef Qualification (or equivalent)
- Intermediate Food Hygiene Certificate
- Enhanced DBS clearance
- Previous catering experience with a genuine passion for food and team engagement
- Strong literacy and numeracy skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Good time management and organisational skills
- Ability to work well under pressure
- Computer literacy
- Ability to achieve and maintain high operational standards, particularly regarding hygiene and compliance
- Positive approach to learning and self‑development
- Self‑motivated with strong initiative and the ability to meet deadlines
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team and successfully implement change
Desirable
- NVQ Level 3 Chef Qualification (or equivalent)
- Previous experience managing catering operations within an educational environment
- Experience managing budgets and financial performance
- Experience developing, motivating, and training teams
- Good financial and commercial awareness
- Experience delivering customer engagement activities and increasing meal uptake
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.
- A competitive salary & excellent benefits package.
- Opportunities for career growth and development.
- A diverse, supportive, and inclusive workplace.
- A chance to make a tangible impact on your work and the community.
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.
Please note: Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we receive a high number of applications.
Catering Manager in Swindon employer: Sodexo
At Sodexo, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values individuality and fosters a supportive work culture. As a Catering Manager at The Deanery CE Academy in Swindon, you will enjoy a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and ample opportunities for career growth while making a meaningful impact on the lives of students and the community. Join us to lead a passionate team, create engaging dining experiences, and thrive in a diverse and inclusive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Manager in Swindon
✨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. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Sodexo
Don't be shy about reaching out to Sodexo 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 Swindon
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 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
✨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!
