Chef Manager - Independent Prep School - Monday to Friday - £40,000

Looking for a Chef Manager role where you can run your own kitchen, work daytime hours, and enjoy a genuinely positive environment?

We’re recruiting a Chef Manager to lead the catering operation at a well-regarded independent prep school, delivering fresh, nutritious food across a structured school day in Essex!

This is a fantastic opportunity for a Chef Manager or Head Chef looking for full ownership of a smaller site, with a strong work–life balance and a supportive school environment.

The Offer

• £35,000 to £40,000 salary
• Monday to Friday
• 40 hours per week
• 52-week contract
• Daytime hours (breakfast + lunch focused)
• Stable, long-term role
• Supportive and well-run environment

The School & Operation

• Independent prep school (nursery to Year 6).
• Catering for approx. 250 pupils + 50 staff.
• Breakfast club, lunch and after-school provision.
• Fresh, nutritious food prepared daily.
• Small, structured kitchen team (5 total).
• Termly menus with seasonal reviews.
• Minimal hospitality - focus on core feeding.

The Role

• This is a hands-on leadership role with full responsibility for the kitchen.
• Lead the site as Chef Manager.
• Manage and support a small kitchen team.
• Deliver fresh, high-quality food daily.
• Plan and adapt menus within school structure.
• Manage stock, ordering and kitchen organisation.
• Ensure food safety and compliance standards.
• Build a positive, calm and efficient kitchen culture.

About You

• Experience as a Chef Manager or Head Chef
• Background in education, B&I or contract catering
• Reliable, consistent and committed to long-term roles.

Why This Role?

This is a great move if you’re looking to:

• Run your own kitchen with full ownership
• Work Monday to Friday with daytime hours
• Be part of a friendly, community-led school environment
• Step into a stable, well-structured role with low stress

If you are keen to discuss the details further, please apply today or send your cv to yasmin at COREcruitment dot com