Culinary Manager

At Aramark, we empower our people to create experiences that matter. We share a passion for hospitality, it's at the foundation of everything we do. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing, a role at Aramark can help you reach your full potential.

We are currently recruiting for an experienced and passionate Culinary Manager to lead the catering operation at Weeton Barracks, Preston . This is an exciting opportunity for a strong culinary leader to oversee a large and varied catering operation, driving food quality, team performance, and operational excellence across multiple dining facilities.

What's in it for you?

Full-time position working 40 hours per week over 5 days out of 7

Cost-price staff meals

Free on-site parking

Access to the on-site gym

Flexible and predominantly daytime working with limited late nights

Regular and predictable working pattern

Excellent work-life balance

Free uniform provided

Company pension scheme

Employee Assistance Programme and online GP access

Training and professional development opportunities

Excellent career progression opportunities within Aramark

A supportive and inclusive working environment

What you'll be doing

Overseeing the full catering operation at Weeton Barracks, including the Officers' Mess, Warrant Officers' & Sergeants' Mess, and Junior Ranks Hub

Taking overall responsibility for food production, quality, presentation, and menu delivery

Ensuring all food is prepared and served to the highest standards

Managing food safety compliance and allergen controls across all catering areas

Leading, motivating, and developing the culinary team to achieve operational excellence

Managing stock control, ordering processes, and supplier relationships

Monitoring food costs and budgets to ensure efficient operation

Driving waste reduction initiatives and maintaining effective waste management processes

Ensuring kitchen standards, hygiene standards, and legislative compliance are maintained at all times

Supporting menu planning and service development to meet customer expectations

Building strong working relationships with clients, stakeholders, and operational teams

What we're looking for

Previous experience in a Culinary Manager, Head Chef, Executive Chef, Kitchen Manager, or similar leadership role

Strong leadership and team management skills

Excellent food safety knowledge and understanding of allergen management

Strong kitchen organisation and operational planning skills

Experience managing food costs, stock control, and ordering systems

Ability to develop, coach, and motivate a successful culinary team

Experience with menu planning and food production management

Strong communication and problem-solving abilities

Ability to maintain exceptional standards within a busy operational environment

Passion for food, customer service, and continuous improvement

Additional Requirements

Successful candidates will be required to complete standard military vetting

At Aramark UK, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued and empowered to thrive.

As a proud Disability Confident Employer, we actively encourage applications from individuals of all abilities and are dedicated to supporting employees with disabilities throughout their career journey.

We are an Armed Forces Friendly organisation and proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant. We welcome applications from veterans, service leavers, cadet forces adult volunteers, reservists and military families.

We ensure our recruitment process is accessible, and reasonable adjustments are available at every stage, from application to interview and employment. If you require any adjustments or have any questions, please reach out to our recruitment team – careers@aramark.co.uk

Any offer of employment for this role will be conditional upon the successful completion and maintenance of the required level of security clearance. Applicants must meet the relevant eligibility and residency requirements applicable to the clearance level associated with the role.

Join us in fostering a workplace where everyone can achieve their full potential.

All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.