• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• The closing date: 23/01/2026.

• Hours per week: 22.5.