Head of Kitchen

Contract Civic Recruitment Limited United Kingdom

Posted On 22/01/2026

Job Information

Work Experience 4-5 years

Food / Catering / Hospitality

City Little Thurrock

Province Thurrock

Postal Code RM17

Job Description

3 months contract with a Local Authority

Job Summary:

• Thurrock Catering Services is seeking experienced and enthusiastic Head of Kitchen professionals to lead the delivery of high-quality school meal services across Thurrock.
• This role involves managing kitchen operations, preparing and cooking meals, supervising staff, and ensuring compliance with food hygiene and allergy legislation.
• The successful candidates will support the Catering Service in maintaining Bronze Food for Life standards while delivering a safe, efficient, and customer-focused service to pupils and staff.

Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):

• Lead, organise, and supervise all kitchen, counter, and dining hall activities.
• Prepare, cook, and deliver high-quality meals in line with Bronze Food for Life standards.
• Manage food ordering, stock control, and kitchen resources.
• Supervise and support kitchen staff, ensuring high standards of service and customer care.
• Promote the Catering Service and remain up to date with new products, promotions, and legislative changes.
• Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, allergy legislation, and food safety due diligence requirements.
• Complete daily, weekly, and monthly operational data reconciliation.
• Provide flexible cover across schools within Thurrock when required.
• Support initiatives aimed at increasing uptake of the school meals service.

Skills/Experience:

• Proven experience as a Head of Kitchen, Chef, or Cook within a catering environment.
• Strong knowledge of Food Hygiene and Allergy Legislation.
• Experience managing kitchen operations, staff supervision, and food ordering.
• Ability to deliver excellent customer service with a positive, can-do attitude.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Flexibility to work across multiple school sites.
• Understanding of compliance, due diligence, and food safety standards.