Head of Catering, Commercial Services and Events

The Head of Catering, Commercial Services and Events is an important role within the school, taking responsibility for the operational and financial management of our award-winning in-house Catering function, for the growth of our on-site Commercial income generation including Hemsted Park, our Commercial Arts Centre, and for the operational oversight of school events.

In leading our sector-renowned Catering team, you will oversee the team’s delivery of stunning food for over 700 students and staff throughout term time and for our commercial visitors through the school holidays.

Working closely with colleagues across the school, you will drive growth in our commercial income, initiating and delivering on a wide-ranging programme of commercial activities and events, generating income to support the school. 

The successful candidate will be an inspirational leader with the initiative to develop commercial opportunities, an eye for quality, strong logistical and event management skills and the ability to motivate teams to deliver at the highest quality.

Hours: 

40 hours per week, all year round, including some evening and weekend work. Flexibility is an essential requirement of this position.                            

Salary:

A highly competitive salary will be paid, based on knowledge and experience.

About Benenden

Benenden is one of the leading day and boarding schools in Britain. We were founded in 1923 and are situated in 250 acres of attractive parkland in Kent. There are 550 girls in the school, aged 11-18, with approximately 190 of those in the Sixth Form. We are an ambitious school, with recent developments including a state-of-the-art Science Centre and All-Weather Sports Pitch, and our new world-class Centenary Hall and Music School opened in June 2022.

Meals are provided to staff whilst on duty. The school’s leisure facilities, including a fitness gym and swimming pool are available for staff to use. 

For a full job description and to apply, please complete an application form on our website by clicking the apply button.

Completed applications should be received by 9:00am on 8 January 2025.

First round interviews likely to be held week commencing 13 January 2025, with second round interviews likely to be week commencing 20 January 2025. 

We reserve the right to appoint early should a suitable candidate be successful in their application.

The post-holder will be responsible for promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children with whom they come into contact. They must ensure compliance with the School’s Child Protection Policy Statement at all times. This appointment will be subject to enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service checks. Benenden School is committed to equal opportunities and equal pay for all employees. Whilst Benenden isn’t accredited to the Living Wage Foundation, we do look to the Living Wage for guidance and our starting pay is currently in line with this.