Executive Chef / Head Chef

Executive Chef / Head Chef

About Us

Caterlink is one of the UK’s leading school caterers, providing fresh, innovative food services exclusively to schools and colleges. We are a team of experienced professionals who tailor our catering provision to suit children of all ages and meet the bespoke requirements of each school.

The safety and wellbeing of the pupils we serve is at the heart of everything we do. Through rigorous training, clear communication, and exceptional care, we ensure robust allergen management so that every mealtime is a safe and enjoyable experience.

The Role

We are seeking a passionate, hands-on Executive Chef / Head Chef to lead our culinary team at St Mary's Christian Brothers' Grammar School. In this role, you will take full ownership of the kitchen, driving food standards, managing operations, and delivering outstanding, nutritious food experiences to pupils, staff, and visitors.

Responsibilities

Location: St Mary's Christian Brothers' Grammar School, Belfast; Contract Type: Term Time; Salary: £18.00 per hour; Company: Caterlink; Culinary Leadership: Design and deliver fresh, innovative, and compliant menus that appeal to students while meeting nutritional guidelines.; Kitchen Operations: Oversee daily food preparation, production, and service, ensuring the highest standards of presentation and quality.; Team Management: Lead, motivate, and develop the kitchen team, managing rotas and fostering a positive working environment.; Safety & Compliance: Maintain strict health and safety, food hygiene (HACCP), and impeccable allergen management protocols.; Financial Control: Manage food costs, stock control, and wastage to ensure the catering service operates within budget.

Requirements

Proven experience as a Head Chef or Executive Chef, ideally within a high-volume education, contract catering, or commercial environment.; Strong leadership skills with a track record of managing and developing a kitchen team.; Passion for fresh food and a strong understanding of current food trends and nutrition for young people.; Excellent knowledge of Food Safety, Health & Safety, and Allergen legislation.; Relevant culinary qualifications (e.g., NVQ Level 3 or equivalent) and Food Hygiene Level 3/4 is highly desirable.; Ideally, you will have experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef within a contract catering environment, preferably in independent education, or a high-profile business and industry setting.; Strong leadership and team management skills; Passionate about fresh, quality ingredients and innovative menus; Excellent organisational, communication, and financial management skills; Knowledge of current food trends, sustainability, and allergen control

Benefits

Work-Life Balance: Enjoy the benefits of a Term-Time contract, offering excellent work-life balance around school holidays.; Competitive hourly rate of £18.00.; Ongoing training, career development, and progression opportunities within Caterlink.