About the Company: HCL is an award-winning specialist caterer with a strong foundation in the educational sector providing over 16 million meals each year to children in schools. We are committed to delivering consistent, high-quality catering services across three operational arms serving Primary Schools, Secondary Schools and the Commercial Sector. We are on a journey to improve our offer and continue serving our customers with a fresh and innovative approach - and we need an Executive Chef to join our Team Our staff are our greatest asset and we are pro-active in providing the tools to develop individuals into motivated teams. We are a responsible employer committed to inclusion, diversity and equality of opportunity in every activity, from the way we employ staff to the way we deliver services. It is a central responsibility of managers and employees of the company to ensure that every individual that we meet is treated with dignity and respect. Job Summary: As the Executive Chef at HCL, you will be the driving force behind our commitment to deliver high-quality, nutritious, and engaging food experiences for children and staff across our primary schools, secondary schools, and commercial sites. Your role will be central in upholding HCL's core food values and ensuring they resonate throughout the organisation. Managing the Food and Nutrition Teams you will oversee all aspects of menu development, innovation, and compliance, managing a dynamic team of Development Chefs, Food & Menu coordinator, and Nutritionists. Your strategic vision and culinary expertise will also position you as a key figure in representing HCL at presentations, tenders, and trade shows. The role offers a unique opportunity to impact the health and well-being of children while championing HCL's mission to make food a vital part of the educational experience. Responsibilities: Menu Development, Cost & Compliance Innovation & Culinary Concepts Operational Efficiency and Labour Management Engagement and Training Team Leadership & Development Nutritional Management & Compliance Presentations & Stakeholder Engagement Trend Analysis & Continuous Improvement Person Specification: Dynamic leader passionate about producing and delivering excellent, tasty food. Extensive experience in large-scale food service. Commercial focus, with a demonstrated ability to deliver exceptional business performance and results. Proven leadership in culinary innovation, menu development, and team management. Strong understanding of nutritional compliance (especially in children's nutrition), budget management, and regulatory standards. Excellent communication skills and a persuasive presenter to potential customers and internal stakeholders. Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities. Ability to analyse briefs and apply required skills to deliver them and prioritise workload within demanding timescales. Competent in time management and capable of working autonomously. Proficient in MS Office Suite and other relevant software tools. This post is subject to an Enhanced Children's DBS check and the right to work in the UK. We are an equal opportunities employer. Feel like you fit this role, but don't meet all the requirements? We strive for fresh perspectives, so if you can demonstrate how your attitude and other abilities might make up for any gaps, we would welcome your application