We are looking for a passionate chef who wants to make a real difference in the community.

Location: Malden Centre, New Malden
Hours: 30 hours per week including some weekends
Salary: £33,280 + 5% pension
Contract: Fixed term to March 2027 (possible extension)
Annual Leave: 27 days + Bank Holidays (pro rata)

At Kingston Voluntary Action, we’re looking for a Chef Manager for our Community Café & Surplus Hub to lead our kitchen and front of house, and help turn surplus food into nutritious, high-quality meals for local people.

This is a unique opportunity to combine your culinary skills with social impact — tackling food waste while supporting those experiencing food insecurity in Kingston.

About the Role

You’ll take ownership of our Surplus Hub Kitchen, and help to set-up and fully manage the Community Café. You will be responsible for hiring and managing  the front of house staff, preparing fresh and nutritious meals and supporting our Community Café offer and Events.

You’ll play a key role in ensuring food is prepared to a high standard, kitchen is run safely and efficiently, and our services meet the needs of the community.

About You

We’re looking for someone with strong business acumen who:

• Can start as soon as possible
• Has experience cooking in a commercial or community setting
• Can confidently produce high volumes of fresh meals
• Has strong knowledge of food safety and kitchen operations
• Is organised, proactive, and able to work in a fast-paced environment
• Shares our commitment to reducing food waste and tackling food poverty
• Has a Level 2 Food Hygiene certificate (or equivalent)

Why Join Us?

KVA is a well-established and respected organisation supporting the voluntary and community sector in Kingston. We’re an ambitious and growing team with a strong focus on collaboration, innovation, and community impact.

Inclusive Recruitment

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team.

How to Apply

• Job Description and Person Specification
• Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form (CVs will not be considered)
• Please give a concise statement as part of the Application. This should include details of relevant experience and your reasons for applying for this post based on the person specification.

You can also post the completed application to: Sue Doherty, Kingston Voluntary Action, Siddeley House, 50 Canbury Park Road, Kingston KT2 6LX. Should you have any questions about the role, please ring Eneida Capaldi on 0208 255 3335.

• Closing Date: Tuesday, 30 June, midday
• Notification of an interview: Friday, 3 July
• Interviews: Monday, 6 and Friday, 10 July

Apply here