Catering Manager reference: 151153

This review offers a comprehensive look at the Cook Manager position at Sodexo, located at Our Lady and St Hubert's Catholic Primary School. It aims to provide potential candidates with a clear understanding of the opportunity, highlighting its advantages and key considerations for career growth.

Cook Manager at Our Lady and St Hubert's Catholic Primary School: A Rewarding Opportunity

Sodexo is seeking a dedicated and experienced Cook Manager to lead the culinary operations at Our Lady and St Hubert's Catholic Primary School. This role offers a unique chance to not only manage a kitchen but also to significantly impact the daily lives of students, staff, and visitors through high-quality food and service. This is more than just a cooking job; it's an opportunity to lead, inspire, and be part of a supportive and purpose-driven organization.

Advantages for the Aspiring Candidate:

• Work-Life Balance: A significant advantage is the commitment to avoiding unsociable hours. You'll enjoy public holidays off, including the coveted Christmas break, contributing to a healthier work-life integration.
• Impact and Purpose: As a Cook Manager, your leadership directly influences the team's morale and productivity. You'll be a go-to for support and direction, fostering a positive and vibrant work environment. This role allows you to contribute to the well-being and satisfaction of the school community.
• Career Development with Sodexo: Sodexo is dedicated to its employees' growth. You'll have access to extensive learning and development tools, opportunities for advancement within the company, and a supportive network to help you thrive.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Beyond competitive compensation, Sodexo offers a robust suite of benefits designed to support your overall well-being. This includes:
  • Unlimited access to mental health and wellbeing support platforms.
  • An Employee Assistance Programme offering confidential advice on various life challenges, including legal and financial matters.
  • A free health and wellbeing app with rewards for healthy living, a 24hr virtual GP, and more.
  • The Sodexo Discounts Scheme for savings on a wide range of goods and services.
  • Financial guidance and benefits through the Salary Finance Platform.
  • A Sodexo Retirement Plan to help you save for the future.
  • Death in Service benefit for added peace of mind.
  • Opportunities to participate in volunteering initiatives.
  • A Cycle to Work Scheme for eco-friendly commuting.
• Professional Growth: The role involves managing the entire catering operation, including menu development, staff training, and cost control. This provides a broad spectrum of experience valuable for advancing your career in hospitality management.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Leadership and Mentorship: The success of the kitchen hinges on your ability to develop, mentor, and inspire your team. Strong leadership skills and a passion for nurturing talent are essential.
• Operational Excellence: You'll be responsible for maintaining the highest standards of food quality and service. This requires a meticulous approach to stock management, cost control, and ensuring uniformity across all offerings.
• Culinary Expertise: A strong background in large-scale cooking, catering to between 100 and 1300 students, is a fundamental requirement. Experience with fresh produce and adherence to recipes will be crucial.
• Health and Safety Prowess: A deep understanding and strict adherence to health and safety procedures are paramount, especially within a school environment. Holding a basic food handling skills certification (NVQ Level 2 or equivalent) and a Level 2 Food Safety Certificate are mandatory.
• Resilience and Professionalism: The ability to work under pressure, meet tight deadlines in a busy kitchen, and maintain a professional, positive attitude is key to leading by example.
• Safeguarding Children: As this role involves working within a school setting, a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is essential. Applicants will undergo appropriate screening, including Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks.

This Cook Manager position at Sodexo offers a compelling blend of professional challenge and personal reward. If you are a seasoned culinary professional looking to make a tangible difference in a supportive environment, this could be the ideal next step in your career journey.