Catering Manager

Catering Manager

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Catering Manager to lead a dynamic team delivering nutritious meals and transforming lives through food.

Job Title: Catering Manager

Salary: £35,909–£40,261 per annum 

Location: Essex

Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week (including weekends on a rota basis)

Closing Date: 10th November 2025

Interviews: 27thNovember 2025

About the Role

This is a unique opportunity to lead a values-driven catering service that goes beyond food,supporting wellbeing, recovery, and community connection. As Catering Manager, you’ll oversee operations across multiple supported accommodation sites, ensuring the consistent delivery of safe, nutritious meals that make a real difference.

You’ll manage a team of supervisors, cooks, drivers, and volunteers, embedding quality, compliance, and creativity into every aspect of the service. From strategic planning and budget oversight to training and community engagement, your leadership will help shape a service that nourishes both body and soul.

Key responsibilities include:

•            Leading catering operations across multiple service sites

•            Managing budgets, procurement, and supplier relationships

•            Ensuring compliance with HACCP, allergen, and food safety standards

•            Recruiting, training, and supporting staff and volunteers

•            Designing and delivering food hygiene and employability training

•            Building partnerships with foodbanks, colleges, and community groups

•            Supporting fundraising and awareness through food-based events

•            Promoting inclusion, dignity, and trauma-informed practice in all catering      environments

About You

You’re an experienced catering professional with a passion for people and purpose. You thrive in fast-paced environments and bring creativity, resilience, and a hands-on approach to leadership.

You’ll bring:

•            Significant experience managing catering operations or commercial kitchens

•            Strong knowledge of food safety, HACCP, and allergen management

•            Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop diverse teams

•            Excellent organisational, IT, and communication skills

•            A flexible, solutions-focused mindset and a full manual driving licence

•            A Level 3 Food Safety qualification (Level 4 desirable)

About the Organisation

This role is offered through a leading support provider working with individuals on their journey out of homelessness. The catering team plays a vital role in this mission providing more than meals, they offer hope, skills, and a sense of belonging.

Other roles you may have experience of could include:

Head Chef, Kitchen Manager, Food Services Manager, Hospitality Manager, Community Kitchen Coordinator, Catering Operations Manager, Chef Manager, Volunteer Catering Lead.