About this role

Job introduction

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Cook Manager, School Chef or Catering Manager looking for a better work-life balance whilst still leading a busy and rewarding kitchen operation.

At Sodexo, we know school meals are more than just food — they help students focus, learn and thrive throughout the day. We’re looking for a strong kitchen leader who can confidently run a high-volume school catering operation whilst creating a positive and supportive environment for both students and staff.

Based at Grey Court School in Richmond, you’ll lead the day-to-day catering operation, managing food production, service standards, compliance, ordering, stock control and the kitchen team.

This role would suit someone who enjoys being hands-on, organised and part of a busy kitchen where no two days are the same.

What

Your Day-Day Could Look Like

Leading the kitchen team during breakfast and lunch service
Preparing and cooking fresh meals for large numbers of students daily
Managing stock ordering, deliveries and food costs
Supporting and developing kitchen assistants and catering staff
Ensuring food safety, allergen management and health & safety standards are always met
Creating a positive dining experience for students and staff
Working closely with the school and Sodexo management team
Managing kitchen paperwork, audits and compliance checks
Helping drive meal uptake, themed menus and food initiatives
This is a busy, fast-paced environment, so we’re looking for someone who can confidently lead from the front whilst staying calm under pressure.

This is a busy, fast-paced environment, so we’re looking for someone who can confidently lead from the front whilst staying calm under pressure.

What We're Looking For

We’re looking for someone with strong large-scale catering experience who is confident managing both people and kitchen operations.

Essential

Experience cooking for high volumes (100–1300 covers)
Previous school catering, contract catering or large-scale catering experience
Experience supervising or managing a kitchen team
Strong understanding of food safety and kitchen compliance
Experience managing stock, ordering and food costs
Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced kitchen
Positive attitude with strong leadership skills
NVQ Level 2 (or equivalent)
Level 2 Food Safety Certificate

Desirable

Previous Cook Manager experience within education catering
Experience increasing meal uptake and customer engagement
Knowledge of allergen management and school food standards

Why Join Sodexo

Working with Sodexo is more than a job — it’s a chance to be part of something greater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you, where you can grow, develop and make a real difference every day.

You’ll also benefit from

School-friendly hours and excellent work-life balance
Public holidays and Christmas off
Full uniform provided
Access to wellbeing and mental health support
Employee Assistance Programme
Discounts, cashback and financial wellbeing support
Pension scheme
Ongoing learning and development opportunities
Cycle to Work Scheme
Opportunities to progress within Sodexo

Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today!

**Sodexo and our Clients are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Certain roles will require applicants to undergo screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (UK) and / or Disclosure Scotland (Scotland)**

*Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we are in receipt of a high number of application

Why Sodexo?

“For a job that’s a perfect mix of passion, perks and potential”

Job Title

Cook Manager

Location

Grey Court School, Ham Street, Richmond, TW10 7HN

Salary

£18.50 per hour

Hours

40 hours per week

Working Pattern

Monday – Friday | 7:00am – 3:00pm

Contract Type

Term Time Only (39 week contract paid over 52 weeks)**

Experience Required

Large-scale school catering or contract catering experience essential