Overview
Salary: £40000 per annum
Shift hours: Full Time
Kitchen Manager (Maternity Cover)
Location: London
Contract Type: Fixed-Term (Maternity Cover)
Reporting To: Executive Chef
We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with a can-do attitude anda proven track record in the event catering industry (ideally 2+ years) to stepin and oversee kitchen operations during the Kitchen Manager’s maternity leave.This is a lively, hands-on role where dedication, creativity, and resilienceare rewarded with the chance to lead, learn, and make a real impact in abustling, exciting kitchen. The successful candidate will have a genuinepassion for food, in-depth industry knowledge, and take pride in deliveringexceptional standards at every turn.
At Rocket we love to “Revel in the exceptional” – being excellent atwhat we do and having fun whilst doing so. We are always on the lookout fordevelopment opportunities, moments to grow, while helping our colleagues reachtheir potential and opening the door to the next opportunity.
For more information about Rocket Food please visit our website: www.rocketfood.com
What you’ll do
As Kitchen Manager, you will take ownership of the daily operation ofthe kitchen, ensuring the highest standards of food safety, organisation, andefficiency. You will be responsible for leading and supporting the Back ofHouse team, maintaining compliance with company systems, and upholding thestandards that define our reputation.
Kitchen Operations
- Lead the day-to-day management of the kitchen, ensuring smooth and efficient service.
- Oversee ordering, deliveries, and stock control via the FoodBuy system.
- Ensure all kitchen areas are safe, well-maintained, and compliant with food hygiene and safety standards.
- Manage and support the Check-it due diligence system, ensuring updates and changes are effectively implemented.
- Input and maintain accurate recipes within the Source system.
- Monitor allergens and ensure clear understanding and compliance across the team.
Compliance & Safety
- Implement and monitor HACCP guidelines in line with onboarding and ongoing training.
- Conduct monthly Safety Conversation training in line with the training plan and HSE requirements.
- Keep all workplace safety and food safety documentation up to date.
- Immediately report any dangerous or hazardous situations to the duty manager.
Team Leadership
- Supervise and support the team of kitchen porters in daily housekeeping duties.
- Manage agency kitchen staff bookings, timesheets, and absences.
- Assist Staffing and HR teams with onboarding and inductions of new employees.
- Encourage positive working relationships across the kitchen and front-of-house, supporting a strong team culture.
Administration & Systems
- Manage kitchen administration, including holiday records, rota planning, and events updates.
- Operate company systems such as Origami, AIR3, and bespoke systems (training provided).
- Assist the operations team with scheduling and reporting maintenance and repairs.
- Maintain accurate filing and database records to support smooth operations.
Collaboration
- Work closely with colleagues across departments to ensure consistency and excellence.
- Support wider company objectives by assisting in operational improvements and best practices.
What we’re looking for
- Previous experience in a kitchen management or supervisory role within high-volume catering, hospitality, or events.
- Strong knowledge of food safety regulations, HACCP, and allergen management.
- A hands-on leader who motivates and develops the Back of House team.
- Confident working with systems and operational HR/rota software (training provided where necessary).
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to build positive relationships across all departments.
- A creative problem-solver with a focus on maintaining high standards and continuous improvement.
- Professional presentation and a commitment to upholding the company brand and values.
- Passion for food, creativity and excellence.
Some of our benefits
- Trend setting package, including expenses and per diems where applicable
- Vast array of training and development opportunities
- Free staff lunch at HQ (made in-house with sustainable sources)
- Social & well-being events and activities
- Envy-worthy employee referral bonus scheme
- Company pension scheme
- Eyecare allowance
- Variable taxi allowance
- Discounts at thousands of retail partners and brands
- And much more!
Equal Opportunities
Whether it is creating diversity in our recipes or building new teams,we care about our people and the opportunities they have at Rocket. We arecommitted to equality of opportunity across our organisation. At all levels wepromote equality, ensuring our people are consistently treated in a fair andequal manner.
Application process
First and second round screening interviews will take place virtuallywith a final, in-person interview on site at Rocket HQ in Battersea, London.
Job Reference: com/1803/41229001/52725582/SU #Rocket
Reference: com/1803/41229001/52725582/SU
Location: London
