Academy Kitchen Manager

Chulmleigh Academy Trust
Full Time, Permanent
Academy Kitchen Manager
37 hours per week x 39 weeks per annum
Grade E: £16.34 to £18.04 per hour (depending on experience)
Required from January 2027
Chulmleigh Academy Trust is seeking to appoint a reliable and hardworking individual to manage the Academy catering services. The successful candidate will be responsible for the planning, preparation and delivery of meals to the College and our three primary schools.
We are pleased to offer a permanent post covering 37 hours per week x 39 weeks per annum (term time, including Non-Pupil Days). The working pattern is Monday to Friday, 7.00am to 3.00pm (2.30pm on Friday) – This will include a 30-minute unpaid break. We are committed to appointing the very best candidate and there may be some flexibility in the working pattern. The role will be available from January 2027.
The successful candidate will work closely with the Academy Leadership Team to manage and further develop the catering provision for the Academy.
Closing Date: Monday, 23rd November 2026
Interview Date: Thursday, 3rd December 2026

The successful candidate will have overall responsibility for the day-to-day running of the kitchen ensuring the very best catering provision for our pupils and staff, focused on high quality, nutritious, locally sourced fresh foods.
Key responsibilities will include:
· Liaising with all stakeholders to ensure the provision of appropriate menu choices and food services to meet the needs of pupils, staff and visitors.
· Ensuring compliance with all relevant environmental and health and safety standards.
· The direct management of the catering services including planning, cost control, production and service procedures
· The day-to-day management of the catering staff to include working patterns and staff appraisals.
· Preparation and maintenance of the annual catering budget to include the ordering of food, consumables and other related products.
· Ensuring waste is kept to a minimum.
· Identifying and monitoring Key Performance Indicators

Candidates should be able to demonstrate their ability to lead and motivate a team whilst maintaining high standards and managing costs. We would welcome applications from candidates with an established background in catering and a proven track record of running a busy kitchen. In addition, candidates will require good communication skills and the ability to liaise effectively to build good relationships with outside stakeholders.

Employment benefits include eligibility to join the Local Government Pension Scheme. In addition, employees of the Trust are entitled to 50% off childcare fees at our out of school clubs for children of compulsory school age. Employees of Chulmleigh Academy Trust also benefit from a comprehensive well-being service.

We are committed to promoting equality of opportunity and access for all, irrespective of age, background, race, gender, religion, ability, disability, or sexuality. We welcome applications for employment from the whole community.
As employers, we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and in that regard have appropriate policies and procedures. All staff undertake a criminal record check via the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and interviews will include questions about safeguarding children .
In line with Government guidance, we may carry out online searches against shortlisted applicants' names as part of our due diligence checks.

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