Kitchen Manager

Job Details

School Kitchen Manager 
Salary: Scale 3 (5-6)£12,147.08 to £12,339.86
Hours: 20 hours per week 
Location:[Employer hidden] 
PermanentReports to: School Office and Business Operations Manager

The School Kitchen Manager is responsible for the effective day-to-day management of the school kitchen, ensuring high quality, nutritious meals are prepared and served in line with School Food Standards. This role oversees menu planning, food ordering, stock control, health and safety compliance, and the leadership of kitchen staff to ensure a safe, efficient, and welcoming dining environment for pupils and staff.

Key Responsibilities

Kitchen Operations & Food Preparation

• Oversee the preparation, cooking, and service of meals to ensure high standards of quality, nutrition, and presentation.
• Develop and maintain menus that comply with current School Food Standards and meet the dietary needs of pupils, including allergies and special dietary requirements.
• Ensure meals are delivered on time and that portion control guidelines are followed.

Stock Management & Ordering

• Work closely with our main suppliers (Apetito) to design and implement our menu
• Manage stock levels efficiently, including ordering food and supplies in accordance with the school’s procurement procedures.
• Maintain accurate records of deliveries, stock use, and wastage.
• Ensure effective budget control within allocated financial resources.
• Ensure the kitchen remains cost effective with minimal waste and maximum income

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure the kitchen is fully compliant with all relevant health, safety, and hygiene regulations, including Food Safety,Allergen Legislation COSHH, and HACCP procedures.
• Oversee accurate records required for external inspections, including temperature logs, cleaning schedules, and food safety documentation.
• Update risk assessments and ensure safe working practices are followed at all times.

Team Leadership & Management

• Lead, supervise, and motivate the kitchen team to ensure a positive and efficient working environment.
• Organise staff rotas, manage workloads, and ensure adequate cover during absences.
• Provide training and ongoing support to team members, including induction, food hygiene, and safety procedures.
• Carry out performance appraisal discussions and support professional development.

Customer Service & School Engagement

• Build positive relationships with pupils and staff to promote a welcoming atmosphere in the dining area.
• Work collaboratively with school leadership to support whole school events involving catering (e.g.,census,theme days, parent events, celebrations).
• Engage parents with good communication and planned events

Person Specification

Essential Skills & Experience

• Knowledge of School Food Standards and experience working in a school or large scale catering environment(or a willingness to train)
• Level 2 or 3 Food Safety & Hygiene qualification (or willingness to obtain).
• Knowledge of allergen management and health & safety regulations.
• Excellent organisational skills and ability to manage budgets and stock efficiently.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to motivate and support staff.

Desirable

• Experience with menu planning for children.
• Previous experience in a school catering setting.

Key Attributes

• Reliable, organised, and proactive.
• Commitment to providing nutritious meals that support pupil well being.
• Able to remain calm and positive in a fast paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to high standards of hygiene and safety.

Disclosure Barring Service (DBS)
This post is exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and as such appointment will be conditional upon the receipt of a satisfactory response to a check of criminal records via the Disclosure and Barring Service before the appointment is confirmed. This will include details of cautions, reprimands, or final warnings, as well as convictions. The County Council has a commitment to safeguarding service users in our care.

Equality & Diversity:We are committed to equality of opportunity for all citizens and celebrates the diversity of all its residents.

Application Closing Date:day date month year Anticipated Interview Date:day date month year

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