At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the food experience for 1,500 pupils and staff, overseeing catering and events.
- Company: Join a prestigious school committed to exceptional dining and community welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous perks like lunches, private healthcare, and access to top-notch facilities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape a brand new dining hall and make a real impact on student health and nutrition.
- Qualifications: Experience in large-scale catering, strong leadership, and a passion for food trends.
The predicted salary is between 34359 - 43607 £ per year.
What you’ll be doing:
- Overseeing the entire food experience for the school, a lunch offer for nearly 1,500 pupils aged four to eighteen, staff dining, pre- and post-school catering, and an extensive events programme from food platters and large receptions to VIP dining.
- Leading operations across dispersed, temporary catering sites during Project Crucible, including our grab-and-go offer and interim kitchen provision.
- Playing a key role in the design and fit-out of the new dining hall, shaping kitchen layouts, finishes, technology, and the food court concept.
- Supporting and guiding the Chef Team on menus that work across all ages, locations, and dietary needs, with a focus on gut health, nutrition, allergen management, and sustainability.
- Building and leading a high-performing team: rotas, training, and all the operational and administrative frameworks that keep a complex operation running.
What we’re looking for:
- Proven experience leading a large-scale catering or hospitality operation, you understand how to feed a lot of people, brilliantly, day after day.
- You don't need to be a chef, but you do need to understand kitchens, menus, and what makes a food offer truly great.
- Strong people leadership and operational confidence.
- HR processes, compliance, budgets, and contracts are second nature to you.
- Curiosity and ambition around food: trends, technology, health, and sustainability genuinely excite you.
- The resilience and adaptability to thrive in a fast-moving, high-expectation environment, especially during a period of significant change.
Why join us:
- A career-defining opportunity to help design and launch a brand new, premier dining hall and events space.
- Access to outstanding facilities including a swimming pool, gym and library.
- Generous benefits including lunches, employee assistance programme, and private healthcare options.
- Cycle-to-work scheme, tech scheme, and local business discounts.
Alleyn's is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check. Alleyn's is an Equal Opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all candidates who meet the requirements for the position and are especially keen to hear from those in minority groups currently underrepresented at the school. We celebrate diversity and the many benefits it brings to our community.
Head of Food Experience and Operations in London employer: The Independent Schools Council
At Alleyn's, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead the food experience for a vibrant school community. With access to outstanding facilities and generous benefits, including private healthcare and a cycle-to-work scheme, we foster a supportive work culture that values diversity and employee growth. Join us in shaping a premier dining hall while enjoying a fulfilling career in a dynamic environment focused on nutrition, sustainability, and innovation.
Contact Details:
The Independent Schools Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Food Experience and Operations in London
✨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 The Independent Schools Council. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Independent Schools Council
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Independent Schools Council 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 Head of Food Experience and Operations in London
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 The Independent Schools Council 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 The Independent Schools Council
✨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!
