Job Description
Catering Team Leader
Start Date: ImmediateContract Type: PermanentHours: Full-time, 40 hours per week, 52 weeks per year. Working 5 days out of 7 (Monday-Sunday) on a rotating shift pattern:
- Week 1: 6:30am - 3:00pm
- Week 2: 12:00pm - 8:30pm
Salary: £28,500 - £29,188 per annumBenefits: Competitive salary, generous pension scheme, free meals, and more. Plus, the opportunity to live and work in a beautiful rural setting.
Reporting To: Catering & Events Manager
About the Role
They are seeking a dedicated Catering Team Leader to join their dynamic catering department. This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about food service and team leadership, who thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in delivering exceptional standards.
About the Department
With a kitchen brigade of 15, including Chefs, Commis Chefs, Kitchen Assistants, and Stores staff, the department delivers a fully catered service serving breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and supper, seven days a week during term time. They cater for approximately 560 pupils and 450 staff, alongside numerous hospitality events and formal dinners throughout the year.
Professional development is a priority, with opportunities for supplier visits, culinary training, and industry insights. Previous initiatives have included visits to 5-star hotels, attendance at food festivals, and hands-on sessions with suppliers. Apprenticeships are also supported, with recent successes at Level 2 and Level 4 in Chef Management and Commis Chef roles.
Key Responsibilities
- Supervise all General Assistants and Kitchen Porters on shift.
- Oversee the management and maintenance of dining rooms and food service areas.
- Ensure salad counters and servery areas are clean, stocked, and ready for service.
- Conduct pre-service briefings, including allergen and dietary information.
- Enforce health & safety compliance and food hygiene standards.
- Deliver efficient, friendly service and respond promptly to customer requests.
- Complete all necessary records daily (checklists, temperatures, cleaning schedules).
- Comply with legislative procedures (Manual Handling, COSHH, Fire Safety, Food Safety).
- Maintain cleanliness and presentation standards across all catering areas.
- Collate weekly HACCP documentation.
- Order non-food items and manage COSHH products appropriately.
- Assist with stocktaking, staff induction, and training.
- Support hospitality and events as directed by management.
- Contribute to new ideas and improvements within the catering department.
- Provide cover and work overtime when required.
What They're Looking For
Essential:
- Previous experience in a similar catering role, ideally catering for large numbers.
- Strong organisational skills and ability to lead a team effectively.
- Excellent communication skills with a professional, approachable manner.
- Ability to work under pressure, using initiative and remaining calm.
- High standards of personal hygiene and commitment to food safety.
- Ability to work unsupervised and as part of a team.
- Full driving licence or reliable transport (rural location with limited public transport).
Desirable:
- Previous supervisory experience.
- Level 2 Food Safety and Level 3 Supervising Food Safety qualifications.
- Flexible and proactive approach to work.
If this exciting opportunity interests you, please apply ASAP!
