Chef Manager

Chef Manager - Independent Prep School - Monday to Friday - £40,000

Looking for a Chef Manager role where you can run your own kitchen, work daytime hours, and enjoy a genuinely positive environment?

We’re recruiting a Chef Manager to lead the catering operation at a well-regarded independent prep school, delivering fresh, nutritious food across a structured school day in Essex!

This is a fantastic opportunity for a Chef Manager or Head Chef looking for full ownership of a smaller site, with a strong work–life balance and a supportive school environment.

The Offer

£35,000 to £40,000 salaryMonday to Friday40 hours per week52-week contractDaytime hours (breakfast + lunch focused)Stable, long-term roleSupportive and well-run environment

The School & Operation

Independent prep school (nursery to Year 6).Catering for approx. 250 pupils + 50 staff.Breakfast club, lunch and after-school provision.Fresh, nutritious food prepared daily.Small, structured kitchen team (5 total).Termly menus with seasonal reviews.Minimal hospitality - focus on core feeding.

The Role

This is a hands-on leadership role with full responsibility for the kitchen.Lead the site as Chef Manager.Manage and support a small kitchen team.Deliver fresh, high-quality food daily.Plan and adapt menus within school structure.Manage stock, ordering and kitchen organisation.Ensure food safety and compliance standards.Build a positive, calm and efficient kitchen culture.

About You

Experience as a Chef Manager or Head ChefBackground in education, B&I or contract cateringReliable, consistent and committed to long-term roles.

Why This Role?

This is a great move if you’re looking to:

Run your own kitchen with full ownershipWork Monday to Friday with daytime hoursBe part of a friendly, community-led school environmentStep into a stable, well-structured role with low stress

If you are keen to discuss the details further, please apply today or send your cv to yasmin at COREcruitment dot com