Head of Catering and Hospitality

Salary: £55,000 - £65,000 (depending on experience) Full-time 40 hours per week (annualised) Permanent all year round contract Start date: 01/01/2027 or ASAP (The successful candidate will benefit from a comprehensive handover with the current postholder, who remains in post until March 2027). The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) is one of the leading independent co-educational day schools in the North of England, educating more than 2,000 pupils aged 2–18 across a vibrant and ambitious school community. We are seeking a highly experienced Head of Catering & Hospitality to lead and develop all catering, hospitality and food service operations across the school. This is a significant operational leadership role with responsibility for delivering an exceptional food and hospitality experience for pupils, colleagues, parents and visitors. Leading a team of approximately 29 colleagues across three kitchens and service areas, you will oversee a large and diverse catering operation serving between 2,000 and 3,000 meals each day. Alongside this, you will be responsible for delivering high-quality hospitality for a wide range of school events including productions, sporting fixtures, conferences, open events, parent functions and commercial lettings, ensuring every experience reflects the high standards and reputation of GSAL. It is essential that the postholder is able to work flexibly throughout the week and year and work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, in order to respond to the operational needs of the school. This role requires a visible, hands-on and strategically minded leader who combines excellent operational management with a passion for outstanding food, exceptional customer service and continuous improvement. You will take overall responsibility for the financial performance of the department, menu development, procurement, food safety, health and safety, allergen management, compliance and the leadership and development of a large catering a