To provide flexible managerial support across multiple catering sites, ensuring the delivery of high‑quality food services, operational continuity, and an excellent customer experience. The Support Relief Catering Manager steps in during periods of absence, increased demand, or to assist in the rollout of new operational processes.
This is a mobile chef relief role and would be covering the Coventry, Birmingham and Warwick areas.
Days of working:
5 in 7
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
- Manage day‑to‑day catering operations across designated sites.
- Maintain high standards of food production, presentation, and hygiene.
- Ensure smooth service delivery during staff shortages or manager absences.
- Oversee stock control, ordering, and supplier relationships.
- Support the implementation of new menus, systems, or procedures.
People Management
- Lead, motivate, and support catering teams during relief placements.
- Provide training and guidance to maintain consistent standards across teams.
- Assist with rota management and allocation of staffing resources.
- Promote a positive, inclusive, and safe working environment.
Food Safety & Compliance
- Ensure all activities comply with food safety legislation and organisational policies.
- Maintain accurate records including temperature logs, cleaning schedules, and HACCP documentation.
- Monitor compliance with allergen control and health & safety policies.
Customer Experience
- Deliver excellent customer service across all sites.
- Respond to customer feedback and resolve issues promptly.
- Ensure the catering offer meets service expectations and organisational standards.
Financial Management
- Assist with budget management, cost control, and waste reduction.
- Support revenue‑driven initiatives (where applicable).
- Ensure correct cash handling procedures and financial reporting.
Continuous Improvement
- Identify areas for operational development and share best practice.
- Support change management initiatives across catering services.
- Contribute to audits, quality reviews, and service improvement plans.
Person Specification
Essential
- Experience supervising or managing catering operations.
- Strong understanding of food hygiene, allergen management, and health & safety.
- Excellent communication and people‑management skills.
- Ability to work flexibly across multiple sites.
- Strong organisational and problem‑solving abilities.
- Level 2 Food Safety (minimum).
Desirable
- Level 3 Food Safety or equivalent.
- Experience working across multi‑site catering operations.
- Knowledge of cost control and basic financial reporting.
- Experience in a hospitality, education, commercial, or care‑sector kitchen.
Key Attributes
- Adaptable and calm under pressure.
- Confident decision‑maker.
- Customer‑focused mindset.
- Positive and supportive attitude.
- Commitment to high standards and continuous improvement.