Chef Manager

Location: Outskirts of Bridport, Dorset

Salary: £28,000 per annum

Hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 7:30am to 3:00pm

Contract: 39 weeks per year (term time plus inset days)

About the Role

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Chef Manager to lead the catering operation at a thriving school on the outskirts of Bridport.

Serving approximately 300 meals per day to a school community of 700 pupils, you will take full responsibility for the day-to-day running of the kitchen, leading a team of 4 catering staff to deliver fresh, nutritious meals and an exceptional dining experience.

This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on chef who enjoys leading a team, developing menus, and making a positive impact within a school environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, develop, and motivate a team of 4 catering staff.
• Prepare and serve high-quality, nutritious meals to approximately 300 pupils and staff daily.
• Plan menus in line with school food standards and dietary requirements.
• Manage food ordering, supplier relationships, stock control, and budget performance.
• Ensure the kitchen operates in line with all food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation, and customer service.
• Monitor costs and identify opportunities to improve efficiency and profitability.
• Build positive relationships with pupils, staff, parents, and school leadership.

About You

The successful candidate will have:

• Previous experience as a Chef Manager, Head Chef, or Catering Manager.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• A passion for fresh food and delivering excellent customer service.
• Experience managing food costs, budgets, and stock control.
• Knowledge of food safety legislation, allergen management, and HACCP procedures.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.
• Food Hygiene Level 3 qualification (or equivalent) preferred.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary of £28,000 per annum.
• Excellent work-life balance with term-time working (39 weeks per year).
• No evenings, weekends, or split shifts.
• A supportive and welcoming school environment.
• The opportunity to lead a successful catering operation and make a difference to pupils every day.

Interested?

If you're a passionate and organised Chef Manager looking for a rewarding role with family-friendly hours, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today to join our school catering team on the outskirts of Bridport.

Blue Arrow is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to helping find great work opportunities for great people.