Days of Working: This position will be based at John Howard Centre, London, working Monday to Friday from 9.00 to 5.00, with some availability on weekends.
As a Chef Manager at OCS, you will take the lead in delivering high-quality catering services within a public sector environment. You will be responsible for managing kitchen operations, leading and developing your team, and ensuring food quality, service delivery and compliance are consistently delivered to the highest standards.
This is a leadership role where you will drive performance, maintain strong client relationships and ensure the catering operation runs efficiently, safely and in line with contractual and regulatory requirements.
As part of your role, your key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
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Lead and develop the catering team, promoting high standards of performance, presentation and customer service
- Oversee the day-to-day kitchen operation, ensuring food quality, consistency and service excellence
- Ensure compliance with all client, company and legal requirements, including Health & Safety and food hygiene standards
- Manage budgets across labour, food and materials, ensuring cost control and efficient resource use
- Maintain effective cash handling and financial controls where applicable
- Conduct accurate stock takes and manage stock levels effectively
- Ensure all statutory documentation, audits and compliance records are maintained
- Foster a positive team culture, supporting training, development and performance management
The ideal candidate should meet the following criteria:
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Must have the Right to Work in the UK and willingness to undergo an enhanced DBS check
- Proven experience in a catering management or chef management role
- Strong understanding of budget control, cost management and P&L performance
- Good knowledge of food safety, Health & Safety and compliance requirements
- Leadership experience, with the ability to manage, motivate and develop teams
- Strong organisational and communication skills
- Ability to manage a fast-paced catering operation and prioritise workload effectively
Desirable:
- Membership of the Institute of Hospitality (IOH) or Healthcare Catering Association (HCA) (or working towards)
- Intermediate or Advanced Food Hygiene certification
- Health & Safety qualifications (e.g. IOSH)
- Catering qualifications such as City & Guilds 706/1 & 706/2 or equivalent
- Experience within public sector or healthcare catering environments
Why join OCS?
⭐ OCS are ranked 36th on Glassdoor’s Best Companies to Work For in 2025, reflecting our commitment to creating a workplace where our colleagues feel supported and valued.
🚀 We are passionate about developing our people. Through the OCS Academy, you’ll have access to learning opportunities that support your personal development and career progression.
🙂 With the Hapi app, you can access a wide range of discounts, rewards and wellbeing resources.