OCS
Chef Manager
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Head Chef/Contract Catering Manager
Location: UK (Days of Work: Monday to Friday, Contract – 40 weeks per annum)
About the Role
As a Head Chef/Contract Catering Manager, you will oversee the execution of seasonal food and drink menus for a site and client events while ensuring high standards of quality, compliance, and operational efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
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Menu Development:
- Collaborate with the team to create and refine seasonal menus, tailored to client requirements and visitor expectations.
- Ensure menus align with food safety regulations and company policies.
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Team Leadership & Compliance:
- Manage kitchen staff, chefs, and servers, ensuring daily operations meet client and company standards.
- Enforce legal compliance, including food hygiene, health and safety, and employment regulations.
- Conduct muster training on menus, service procedures, company etiquette, safety standards, and industry regulations.
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Budget Oversight & Procurement:
- Adhere to pre-approved budgets for food, equipment, staffing, and operational costs.
- Negotiate and source supplies from vendors to achieve cost-efficient pricing while maintaining quality.
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Vendor & Client Relations:
- Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers.
- Liaise with clients to ensure their expectations are met on a consistent basis.
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What We’re Looking For
Candidates must demonstrate experience in contract catering operations, with a proven track record in team leadership and operational excellence.
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Essential Qualifications & Experience:
- Level 3 qualification in Catering & Hospitality (or equivalent) with pilot-unit experience in contract catering.
- Demonstrable leadership skills to mentor, motivate, and supervise a culinary team.
- Proven ability to handle client feedback, complaints, and service improvements.
- Capacity to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to change.
- Experience managing contracts and ensuring time-sensitive delivery (e.g., events, reocations).
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Preferred/Bonus Skills:
- NVQ Level 3 or Higher National Diploma in Hospitality Management.
- Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2).
Requirements & Expectations
Applicants must fulfill the following statutory and operational criteria:
- Right to Work in the UK (evidence required upon offer).
- Willingness to undergo a DBS/Enhanced Security Check.
- Exceptional craft-spot skills (able to balance operational demands with customer needs).
- Communication skills tailored to engaging staff, clients, and senior management.
- Time management & organisation—prioritising courteous procedures within tight schedules.
- Confidential information handling—ensuring client contracts remain secure.
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About the Company
OCS UK & Ireland is a leading facilities management company operating in the UK and Ireland, with 50,000+ employees and a turnover exceeding £2 billion. We specialise in facility services, cleaning, security, and catering, delivering innovative solutions to public and private sector clients.
Our TRUE Values—Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment—guide us in creating the best work environments for our people.
Our Commitment to You
🏆 Award-Winning Employer – Ranked 36th on Glassdoor’s Best Companies to Work For 2025. 📚 Digital Learning – Free access to the OCS Academy for skill development. 📱 Hapi Perks – Financial and wellbeing discounts through our employee app. 🎓 Professional Growth – 600+ live learners steam at any moment of progression. 💳 Flexible Pay – Earned wages accessible via the Wagestream App (subject to contract).
Next Steps
Apply now to join a dynamic team focused on growth, diversity, and inclusive opportunities. Applications from all backgrounds are welcome—we value Every Voice and Journey.
OCS is an equal opportunities employer—discrimination based on race, gender, disability, religious belief, or other protected characteristics is strictly prohibited.
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