Kitchen Operations Manager

Job Title: Kitchen Operations Manager – Central Production Unit

Location: Herne Hill, London

Reports To: Director of Operations

Position Type: Full-Time

About Us:

JENKI is a leading provider of high-quality matcha products, serving our 3 (soon to be 4) matcha bars and events within London. Our Central Production Unit is the heart of our operations, where we ensure that our products are prepared to the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and safety.

Job Summary:

The Kitchen Operations Manager for our Central Production Unit is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the kitchen, ensuring that production schedules are met, quality standards are maintained, and safety protocols are followed. This role requires a blend of strong leadership, organisational skills, and culinary expertise to manage the kitchen staff, optimise workflows, and maintain a high standard of food production.

 

1. Operational Management:
  • Plan, organise, and supervise daily kitchen operations to ensure timely and efficient production.
  • Develop and implement production schedules to meet the demands of the business needs.
  • Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with product suppliers to ensure the availability of ingredients and supplies.
 2. Quality Control:

  • Ensure all food products meet established quality standards and specifications.
  • Conduct regular inspections of kitchen facilities, equipment, and food products to maintain hygiene and safety standards.
  • Implement and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for food production and handling.

 

3. Staff Management:

  • Recruit, train, and manage kitchen staff, ensuring they are skilled, motivated, and perform to the best of their abilities.
  • Conduct performance evaluations and provide feedback to staff to foster professional growth and development.
  • Schedule and allocate staff shifts to ensure optimal coverage and efficiency.

 

4. Health and Safety:

  • Ensure compliance with all health, safety and sanitation regulations and guidelines.
  • Implement and oversee safety protocols to prevent accidents and injuries in the kitchen.
  • Conduct regular training sessions on health and safety standards for kitchen staff.
5. Budget Management: 
  • Manage kitchen budgets, including labour, ingredients, and supplies costs.
  • Identify cost-saving opportunities and implement measures to optimise resource usage.
  • Monitor and report on financial performance, ensuring that the kitchen operates within budgetary constraints.

 

6. Process Improvement:

  • Continuously evaluate and improve kitchen processes to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality.
  • Implement new technologies and techniques to streamline operations and increase productivity.
  • Collaborate with other departments to align kitchen operations with overall company objectives.

 

7. Recipe Development and Innovation:

  • Lead the development and testing of new recipes in collaboration with the culinary + wider team.
  • Stay current with industry trends and incorporate innovative techniques and ingredients into the production process.
  • Oversee the introduction and integration of new recipes, ensuring they meet quality standards and customer expectations.

 

8. Seasonal Launches:

  • Plan and execute seasonal product launches, coordinating with marketing and sales teams to align production with promotional campaigns.
  • Manage the production adjustments needed for seasonal variations and ensure timely delivery of seasonal products.
  • Analyse the performance of seasonal launches and provide insights for future improvements.

 

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, or a related field.

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in kitchen management or a similar role in a high-volume production environment.

  • Strong knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.

  • Excellent leadership and team management skills.

  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

  • Strong organisational and multitasking abilities.

  • Proficiency in inventory management and production planning software.

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

 

Benefits:

  • Competitive salary

  • NEST pension scheme

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Employee discounts on JENKI products

  • Opportunities for professional development and career advancement

 

JENKI is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.