Job Description

Job Title:

Group Chef

Location:

, Hertfordshire /South London

Reports To:

Operations Manager

Salary: 38,462 - 41,517

HCL is a specialist catering provider in the education sector, delivering healthy, nutritious, and engaging food experiences to schools and academies. With a strong focus on food quality, sustainability, and child wellbeing, we pride ourselves on supporting academic achievement through great food.

This role supports

HCL's growing new business in South London

, a region currently without an established local support network. The Group Chef will be responsible for the

mobilisation and day-to-day operations of three newly acquired school catering sites

, providing hands-on chef cover, managing the

mini-cluster

of schools, and delivering high standards in food, service, and compliance.

This is a

mobile, multi-site role

designed to provide consistent operational relief chef support, uphold food and safety standards, and deliver training across multiple HCL sites. The successful candidate will play a key role in establishing a strong foundation in South London, with potential to progress into a

Contract Supervisor or Manager role

as the business in the region expands.

Key Responsibilities

Chef Support & Site Cover

Provide hands-on chef and cook management support at schools experiencing staff absence or vacancies. Step in operationally to lead kitchens as needed to ensure continuity of service and food quality.

New Site Mobilisation

Support the mobilisation and start-up of new school catering sites, including kitchen setup, staff induction, and training on HCL standards and systems.

Food Quality & Compliance

Monitor and audit food production, hygiene, and allergen management across sites. Prepare clear reports documenting site visits, audits, and improvement feedback for internal use and follow-up.

Team Development & Training

Coach and mentor kitchen teams to address skills gaps, improve performance, and ensure consistent delivery of HCL's food and service standards. Deliver in-kitchen and workshop-style training to upskill staff in food preparation, presentation, portioning, and compliance.

Stakeholder Engagement

Act as the first point of contact with school leaders regarding food service support and standards. Liaise regularly with Contract Managers and Customer Development Managers to identify needs, plan support, and implement solutions.

Menu & Catering Delivery

Ensure the correct implementation of menus aligned with School Food Standards and HCL's commitment to nutritious, balanced meals. Provide catering for special dietary requirements, hospitality functions, emergency cover, and themed events as needed.

Qualifications & Experience

NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Professional Cookery (or equivalent) Level 3 Food Safety & Hygiene (preferred) Experience in large-scale catering, ideally within schools or the education sector Previous experience in a multi-site, chef-manager, or area support role Full UK driving licence (essential - this is a mobile role)

Key Skills

Strong leadership and people-management skills Excellent food safety and allergen compliance knowledge Hands-on, flexible, and proactive approach Ability to build strong relationships with internal teams and school leaders Skilled in coaching, training, and motivating staff Strong organisational and reporting abilities

What We Offer

Competitive salary Company vehicle or mileage allowance Pension scheme Ongoing training and development A rewarding role that positively impacts children's lives
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 38,462.00-41,517.00 per year

Work Location: In person