Job Title Catering Manager Reports To Regional Operations Manager Responsible For Catering Team Members Job Purpose The Catering Manager is responsible for the efficient day-to-day management of the kitchen. Leadership and team participation are essential to provide a quality catering service to our children, young people, and staff. Main Duties And Responsibilities Service Delivery

Execute skilled cooking activities and innovations connected to the full range of menu provisions, including preparation of menus, portion control, plating presentation, special dietary meals (including texture modification for special diets such as IDDSI), theme days/events and function catering where appropriate. Organise and supervise all aspects of food service, including service points and transportation of meals if required. Manage dining centre kitchens as well as the production kitchen. Follow EA policies and procedures for safe cooking and food service to meet current food safety standards. Be aware of all allergen and special dietary requirements and maintain up-to-date Allergen Matrix. Record food temperatures and maintain required records. Manage deliveries, ordering, storage, and stock-take to ensure food safety and minimise wastage. Ensure safe operation of kitchen equipment and report any defects. Report incidents of fire, loss, damage, unfit food, or signs of pest infestation (e.g., mice). Secure premises as required. Promote the catering service to increase uptake of meals through engagement with parents, principals, pupils and customers; plan theme days and events. Establish effective communication with the school on all aspects of service delivery. Investigate and report local-level customer complaints to the Regional Operations Manager. Manage internal risk assessments, including the Fire Risk Assessment. Develop a friendly and helpful atmosphere and professionally handle feedback, including complaints. Carry out other duties assigned by the Regional Operations Manager to ensure the smooth running of the kitchen.

People Management

Efficient management of the team to deliver a high-quality service. Supervise and direct employees, including allocating duties and work rotas; where applicable, include coordinating catering assistants and dining centre operations. Implement policies relating to staff issues (disciplinary, grievance, attendance, returns-to-work, etc.). Participate in interviewing and selection of staff within the catering unit and support investigations as needed. Induct new staff and monitor them during probation; report issues to the Regional Operations Manager. Undertake essential training and maintain training records; ensure regular staff meetings and effective communication at all levels. Manage staff performance and conduct appraisals with appropriate targets.

Financial

Monitor unit financial performance, keep costs within pre-budgeted targets, and assist with financial procedures for the catering service. Carry out clerical duties such as ordering, bookwork and accident reporting to support efficient kitchen operations. Handle cash transactions and ensure compliance with EA cash handling procedures. Manage all resources including food, labour, overheads and equipment, ensuring adherence to financial procedures.

General Responsibilities

Comply with Acts of Parliament, statutory legislation, regulations, codes of practice, HACCP, health, safety and hygiene standards (including COSHH and Natasha’s Law). Perform necessary administration as required. Maintain personal hygiene and appearance; ensure staff adhere to EA uniform code. Attend training sessions and team meetings as scheduled, including during school closure periods. Promote and uphold the values and ethos of the Education Authority and maintain a professional image for customer relations. Follow the Education Authority staff code of conduct at all times.

This job description is subject to change in light of circumstances and may include other duties as needed. It also notes the expectation to promote good relations and equality in line with applicable laws and regulations. #J-18808-Ljbffr