Cater Link Limited
Group Development Chef

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Development Chef – Manchester (Primary & Secondary Schools)
About Caterlink
Caterlink is the education sector catering specialist. For over 20 years, the company has delivered fresh food solutions to pupils and staff across Primary Schools, Secondary Schools, and Colleges all over the UK. We cater more than 1 million meals a week.
Our "Fresh Food Policy" is the foundation of our success and market growth, driving us to deliver on client promises while supporting our site-based teams.
The Role
We are excited to welcome a Development Chef to our Manchester team, covering 5 Primary Schools and 2 Secondary Schools.
Key Responsibilities
- Food Quality & Innovation: Focus on high-quality meals, innovative recipes, and exceeding customer expectations.
- Recipe Development: Work alongside the operations team to create and refine recipes that meet both client and company needs.
- Team Coaching & Training: Support and mentor on-site teams with training and development as required.
- Compliance & Goals: Ensure adherence to purchasing remits, pricing strategies, and client expectations.
- New Business & Retention: Assist in new business acquisition and client retention efforts in the area.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Essential Requirements
- Proven experience as a Development Chef, preferably within the education sector.
- Strong track record in recipe innovation, food presentation, and quality assurance.
- Excellent planning, time management, and organisational skills.
- Strong team leadership and coaching ability.
- Full UK driving licence and access to a car for travel between sites.
- Cooking skills aligned with the demands of the role.
- Willingness to undergo an Enhanced DBS Check (due to safeguarding responsibilities for children and vulnerable adults).
About Working at Caterlink


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A Commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Caterlink is dedicated to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where every team member is valued, supported, and promoted fairly.
Opportunities for Growth & Training
- Blended Learning: Access to apprenticeships, classroom training, eLearning, and on-the-job development.
- Induction Programme: Full onboarding and personal growth support.
- Talent & Retention: Focus on long-term skills development for staff success.
Employee Benefit Package
Say’s Caterlink offers:
- Discount Platform: Access to supermarket savings, cinema offers, family outings, and holiday discounts.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) + Virtual GP Therapy: Free, flexible support for employees and their families.
Eligible staff* may join our Pension Scheme (automatic enrolment through payroll).
Interested? Apply now to join our team!**
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