Cook Manager
Be part of something greater.
- Job reference: SDX/TP/2248949/159612
- Location: Richmond
- Job type: Full Time - 40 hours a week
- Salary: £18.50 per hour
- Closing date: 29 July 2026
About the role
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Cook Manager, School Chef or Catering Manager looking for a better work-life balance whilst still leading a busy and rewarding kitchen operation.
At Sodexo, we know school meals are more than just food — they help students focus, learn and thrive throughout the day. We’re looking for a strong kitchen leader who can confidently run a high-volume school catering operation whilst creating a positive and supportive environment for both students and staff.
Based at Grey Court School in Richmond, you’ll lead the day-to-day catering operation, managing food production, service standards, compliance, ordering, stock control and the kitchen team.
This role would suit someone who enjoys being hands-on, organised and part of a busy kitchen where no two days are the same.
What Your Day-Day Could Look Like:
- Leading the kitchen team during breakfast and lunch service
- Preparing and cooking fresh meals for large numbers of students daily
- Managing stock ordering, deliveries and food costs
- Supporting and developing kitchen assistants and catering staff
- Ensuring food safety, allergen management and health & safety standards are always met
- Creating a positive dining experience for students and staff
- Working closely with the school and Sodexo management team
- Managing kitchen paperwork, audits and compliance checks
- Helping drive meal uptake, themed menus and food initiatives
This is a busy, fast-paced environment, so we’re looking for someone who can confidently lead from the front whilst staying calm under pressure.
This is a busy, fast-paced environment, so we’re looking for someone who can confidently lead from the front whilst staying calm under pressure.
What We're Looking For:
We’re looking for someone with strong large-scale catering experience who is confident managing both people and kitchen operations.
Essential
- Experience cooking for high volumes (100–1300 covers)
- Previous school catering, contract catering or large-scale catering experience
- Experience supervising or managing a kitchen team
- Strong understanding of food safety and kitchen compliance
- Experience managing stock, ordering and food costs
- Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced kitchen
- Positive attitude with strong leadership skills
- NVQ Level 2 (or equivalent)
- Level 2 Food Safety Certificate
Desirable:
- Previous Cook Manager experience within education catering
- Experience increasing meal uptake and customer engagement
- Knowledge of allergen management and school food standards
Why Join Sodexo:
Working with Sodexo is more than a job — it’s a chance to be part of something greater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you, where you can grow, develop and make a real difference every day.
You’ll also benefit from:
- School-friendly hours and excellent work-life balance
- Public holidays and Christmas off
- Full uniform provided
- Access to wellbeing and mental health support
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Discounts, cashback and financial wellbeing support
- Pension scheme
- Ongoing learning and development opportunities
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Opportunities to progress within Sodexo
Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today!
**
Sodexo and our Clients are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Certain roles will require applicants to undergo screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (UK) and / or Disclosure Scotland (Scotland)**
*Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we are in receipt of a high number of application
Why Sodexo?
“For a job that’s a perfect mix of passion, perks and potential”
Job Title: Cook Manager
Location: Grey Court School, Ham Street, Richmond, TW10 7HN
Salary: £18.50 per hour
Hours: 40 hours per week
Working Pattern: Monday – Friday | 7:00am – 3:00pm
Contract Type: Term Time Only (39 week contract paid over 52 weeks)**
Experience Required: Large-scale school catering or contract catering experience essential
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KEY BENEFITS
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Advice and guidance
Get help with legal, financial, personal or work issues whenever you need it. -
Pension Plan
Save effectively for your future when you join the Sodexo Pension Plan. -
Wellbeing support
Unlimited access to online support for your mental health, 24/7. -
Generous leave
For holidays, care needs or major life events, we’ll help you rest and recharge. -
Discounts and savings
Enjoy great deals from leading retailers and use our Bike to Work scheme -
Virtual GP
24-hour access to video or phone consultations for you and your family.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
At our company, we believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Roles at Sodexo are designed to empower individuals from all backgrounds. We are committed to creating an environment that values equity and supports the growth of all employees, ensuring that everyone can contribute to and benefit from our collective success.
Social Impact
Ever since we started, we’ve had a clear purpose – to do some good in our communities through helping people. Today, that purpose is still a huge part of who we are. And every one of our colleagues helps that happen.
We’re committed to volunteering our time, resources, skills and knowledge – more than 50% of colleagues contribute to thousands of volunteer hours every year. And our Charitable Foundation has now donated over £9 million to charities and good causes across the country.
Richmond, United Kingdom, TW10 7HN
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