Commercial Chef Manager

Commercial Chef Manager

Final date to receive applications: 24 July 2026

Department: Visitor Economy, Leisure & Service Industries

Employment Type: Permanent

Location: Liverpool

Reporting To: 25/26-433

Compensation: £36,000 / year

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Commercial Chef Manager who is forward thinking and with exceptional leadership skills to oversee cross-college catering operations and manage a team of technicians dedicated to providing exceptional food service across our five college sites. This role requires a qualified chef with strong management experience, capable of ensuring that all food prepared and served to students is of the highest standard.

Additionally, the Commercial Chef will prepare and present food for various hospitality events, while collaborating with students and external employers to promote integrated work opportunities.

Responsible to: Head of Visitor Economy, Leisure & Service Industries

• Prepare and cook high-quality meals that meet nutritional standards and dietary requirements for students.
• Develop, implement, and maintain standard menu offerings, ensuring variety, seasonal ingredients, and student preferences are considered.
• Conduct regular quality checks on food preparation and presentation.

• Line-manage a team of technicians across five college sites, ensuring effective communication and teamwork.
• Provide training, support, and mentorship to technicians and student assistants, fostering their culinary skills and professional growth.
• Organise work schedules and training sessions to ensure efficient kitchen operations and staff development.
• Strong establishment standards of kitchen and personal hygiene including PPE to be maintained across all sites

• Plan, prepare, and execute food services for a wide range of hospitality events, including catering for college functions, conferences, and community outreach.
• Collaborate with students to engage them in the preparation of food for events, promoting experiential learning opportunities.
• Ensure all hospitality events adhere to safety and hygiene standards, consistently creating a positive dining experience.

• Act as the primary contact between college management and external employers, promoting partnerships that integrate work experience opportunities for students.
• Develop relationships with local businesses and stakeholders to enhance catering services and support community engagement.

• Monitor and manage food production costs, waste, and inventory while maintaining budget standards and ensuring cost-effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, food safety standards, and college policies at all times.
• Improve on-site Cafe's provision across all sites

• Gather feedback from students and stakeholders regarding food services and strive for continuous improvement.
• Stay current with culinary trends, dietary needs, and food service innovations to enhance offerings and learning experiences.

• A recognised culinary qualification (e.g. NVQ Level 2/3, City & Guilds) or equivalent
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a senior chef role within the catering or hospitality industry
• Proven management experience, with a track record of leading teams effectively
• Strong culinary skills and knowledge of diverse cuisines and dietary requirements
• Excellent organisational and multitasking abilities
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively liaise with diverse groups, including students, staff and external stakeholders
• Ability to inspire and motivate a team in a fast‑paced environment

• Flexibility to work across multiple college sites as needed
• Commitment to upholding health and safety standards while creating an inclusive environment for all students
• A valid food hygiene certification (Level 2 or above)

This role may close earlier than the advertised deadline if we receive sufficient applications. Early submission is strongly encouraged.

As a valued member of our…