Head of Catering
| Posting date: | 05 January 2026 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £53,841.00 per year |
| Additional salary information: | £53841.00 a year |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 26 January 2026 |
| Location: | Durham, DH1 5TW |
| Company: | NHS Jobs |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | M9439-SCL299 |
Summary
The Head of Catering is responsible for the effective leadership, management, and continuous improvement of all catering services across the Trust. The postholder will ensure that safe, nutritious, and high-quality food is provided to patients, staff, and visitors, supporting both the delivery of excellent patient care and the wellbeing of the workforce. This is a key leadership role within the Facilities Directorate, requiring a blend of strategic vision, operational expertise, and strong people management skills. The postholder will take overall responsibility for the daily running of catering operations, ensuring services are delivered in accordance with NHS national food standards, statutory food safety legislation, and local policies. They will lead on menu development and nutritional quality, working collaboratively with clinical teams, dietitians, and service users to ensure meals meet patient dietary requirements and promote recovery. The role will also include the management of the Central Production Unit (CPU) and both ward housekeeping services at both Darlington Memorial Hospital and University Hospital North Durham. The Head of Catering will manage budgets effectively, ensuring efficient use of resources and value for money through sound financial control, cost analysis, and procurement practices. They will lead initiatives to reduce food waste, improve sustainability, and increase the use of locally sourced, seasonal, and ethically produced ingredients. The postholder will support the SCL sustainability agenda, aligning catering operations with the NHS Net Zero Carbon targets. A core aspect of the role is the leadership and development of catering staff. The postholder will ensure that all team members are trained, competent, and motivated to deliver high standards of service. They will foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative culture, encouraging innovation and continuous improvement. Regular supervision, performance reviews, and staff engagement will form part of this leadership responsibility. The Head of Catering will also be accountable for ensuring compliance with all statutory, regulatory, and NHS-specific requirements, including food hygiene legislation, infection prevention and control standards, and allergen management. They will maintain robust systems for monitoring, auditing, and reporting, ensuring any issues are promptly addressed and lessons learned are implemented. The role will also require active participation in internal and external inspections or audits, ensuring the service is always prepared and compliant. In addition to operational leadership, the postholder will contribute strategically to the SCL Facilities management. They will provide expert advice on catering matters, support business planning, and lead service development projects designed to enhance quality, efficiency, and user satisfaction. They will work closely with procurement, finance, estates, and clinical colleagues to ensure catering services are integrated with wider organisational objectives. The postholder will act as the principal point of contact for all catering-related issues, representing the service at internal meetings and external forums. They will build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, contractors, and partner organisations to ensure the Trust benefits from best practice, innovation, and market developments. The role requires a proactive approach to service improvement and a commitment to delivering excellence. The Head of Catering will be expected to identify opportunities for innovation including digital systems, menu optimisation, and sustainable practices and to lead change initiatives that enhance both the quality and efficiency of catering operations. The postholder will ensure that catering services contribute positively to the overall patient and staff experience, supporting SCL vision for outstanding care through outstanding support services. They will champion the importance of food and nutrition in health and wellbeing, promoting the catering service as an integral part of the patient care pathway.