Hertfordshire Catering Ltd (HCL)

Chef Manager

WD3 3LR

Key information

Pay
Salary not listed
Hours
Full-time
Contract
Permanent
Posted date
15 Oct 2026
Closing date
14 Nov 2026

About this role

Chef Manager at

Croxley Danes

School

  • 40 Hours per week

At HCL SAFEGUARDING IS OUR NUMBER ONE PRIORITY.

The safety of children and young people is at the heart of everything we do.

About us

At HCL, we're more than just a caterer. We proudly serve over 16 million meals a year, delivering outstanding dining experiences across schools and the commercial sector.

As a

Chef Manager, you will lead the preparation and service of fresh, nutritious meals, ensuring students and staff enjoy high-quality food and excellent service every day.

Let's talk about the role of a

Chef Manager

  • Lead and manage the day-to-day kitchen operations
  • Prepare, and deliver fresh, nutritious meals
  • Oversee stock control, ordering, and budget management
  • Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations
  • Monitor food quality, presentation, and portion control
  • Manage allergen awareness and cater for special dietary requirements
  • Build positive relationships with staff, students, and the wider school community
  • Maintain accurate records (e.g. HACCP, temperature checks, audits)
  • Inspiring and developing your team, creating an environment where people grow and thrive

About the Ideal Chef Manager

  • Committed to safeguarding children and young people
  • Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate (required)
  • NVQ Level 2/3 is highly desirable
  • Passionate about delivering fresh, nutritious meals
  • An experienced leader who can motivate and develop a high-performing team
  • Well-organised, with strong planning and time management skills
  • Confident managing budgets, stock, and kitchen operations
  • Knowledgeable in food safety, allergens, and school food standards
  • Committed to maintaining high standards of hygiene and compliance
  • Proactive, flexible, and able to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Dedicated to providing an excellent dining experience every day

Why join us?

Joining Bonus

£1000! (T&Cs apply)

Salary

£17.55 per hour (£31,654 per annum)

Hours

40 hours per week - No Weekends, No Late Nights

Schedule

Term Time Only - Enjoy all School Holidays off

Uniform provided

Rewards

Spread the Word & Earn Up to £500 - Refer a Friend! (T&Cs apply)

Succeed with us

Career progression opportunities

Exclusive discounts

via VIVUP for supermarkets, cinemas, retail, dining, hotels, and family activities

Wellbeing matters

Support through EAP & Financial Support via Stream

Safeguarding

Enhanced DBS Disclosure paid by HCL -

No Cost to You

If you're passionate, driven and ready to grow, we'd love to hear from you. Take the first step and

apply online - your

Chef Manager career with HCL starts here.