Catering Lead

About the role

Older people look forward to coming to our day centre and for many of them the highlight of the day will be the freshly prepared, two-course lunch. We need to recruit someone with good communication skills to lead and develop the Venton Centre's catering service as a key part of its ambition to become a thriving community hub. The postholder will be responsible for delivering a high-quality, sustainable catering offer that supports wellbeing, social connection and engagement across day services, community activities, events and income-generating opportunities.

This role combines operational oversight of catering delivery with a strong focus on service development, community engagement and sustainability. It is initially offered on a 25-hour-per-week basis. However, as the Centre develops, there is potential for the role and hours to grow in line with service expansion and demand.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and growth of the Centre's catering service, ensuring it meets client needs while supporting organisational objectives and income generation.
• Design and implement seasonal menus that promote healthy eating, wellbeing, customer choice and cater to dietary, cultural and allergen requirements.
• Plan, prepare and serve high-quality nutritious meals and refreshments, maintaining excellent standards of food presentation and customer service.
• Manage catering budgets, menu costing, purchasing and stock control to achieve value for money, minimise waste, and maximise efficiency.
• Monitor customer feedback and introduce service improvements to enhance the overall dining experience and customer satisfaction.
• Support Centre activities, events and room hire functions by delivering effective catering provision and contribute to financial sustainability.
• Recruit, train, support and motivate volunteers, creating meaningful opportunities that encourage community engagement and confidence-building.
• Foster a welcoming and inclusive dining environment, build positive relationships with clients, visitors, volunteers and colleagues.
• Ensure full compliance with Food Hygiene, HACCP, COSHH, Health & Safety and Food Allergen regulations, maintaining accurate records and risk assessments.
• Oversee kitchen maintenance, equipment safety, stock rotation and food storage procedures, coordinating repairs and maintenance as required.
• Promote the welfare, dignity, independence and wellbeing of older people while adhering to safeguarding and confidentiality procedures.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to review performance, implement continuous improvements and support the wider activities of the Centre.