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What does a large-scale kitchen manager do? – Tasks and work environment

A large-scale kitchen manager is responsible for planning, leading, and coordinating operations within large kitchens and catering services, such as in schools, elderly care homes, or hospitals. The role often includes both personnel management and work leadership, involving scheduling, recruiting, and guiding staff. In addition to administrative tasks such as budgeting and procurement of raw materials, good knowledge of food handling, nutrition, and hygiene regulations is required. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace and many points of contact, where the needs of both guests and staff must be met. Usually, a large-scale kitchen manager works daytime, but evening and weekend work may occur on special occasions.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for large-scale kitchen managers has developed at a moderate but steady pace. In 2022, the average salary was 40,000 SEK per month, followed by a slight increase to 39 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen to 41 600 SEK, corresponding to an increase of about 4% from the previous year. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified leaders in large-scale kitchens, especially in the public sector where quality and efficiency requirements have become more prominent. Education level and experience also influence salary levels, with those having longer education and more years in the profession often earning higher salaries. Gender pay gaps are evident, with women generally earning slightly more on average within the profession.

Large-scale kitchen manager salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,400 SEK (men), 36,600 SEK (women)
• Highest salary: 45,400 SEK (men), 43,200 SEK (women)
• Hourly wage: 250 SEK
• Gender differences: Women: 42 400 SEK (specific data on men is unavailable)
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a large-scale kitchen manager usually involves education in hotel and restaurant management, often supplemented with post-secondary courses in nutrition, food science, or leadership. Experience in work management or kitchen operations is highly meritorious. Many employers also prefer that applicants have documented knowledge of food hygiene and finance.

• Formal education: Hotel and restaurant program (high school level), supplemented with post-secondary courses (2–3 years)
• Certifications: Training in food hygiene and specialized courses in nutrition
• Internship: Work-based learning during education is recommended
• Prerequisites: Experience in kitchen management, personnel responsibility, or similar leadership roles
• Tips for choosing: Combine studies in nutrition with leadership training to increase competitiveness

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for large-scale kitchen managers include occupational pension, wellness allowance, subsidized meals, and opportunities for skills development through courses and further education. In some cases, additional vacation days or flexible working hours are offered, depending on the employer and operational needs.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as large-scale kitchen managers varies by region and sector, but there is generally stable demand for experienced leaders in the public sector. Challenges in the profession often involve balancing cost-efficiency with high quality standards, while staff turnover can be high in some operations. The ability to lead and motivate teams, handle stressful situations, and quickly solve problems is crucial for success. Digitalization and new requirements for special diets also demand increased competence and flexibility. Those seeking advancement often need to demonstrate strong organizational skills and the ability to meet changing needs within the large-scale catering sector.

Tips for aspiring large-scale kitchen managers

To succeed as a large-scale kitchen manager, it is important to be organized and have a natural ability to coordinate people and resources. Developing leadership skills, for example by taking responsibility for projects or small workgroups early in your career, provides valuable experience. Flexibility is an essential trait, as tasks can vary greatly from day to day and quick adjustments are often necessary. Good communication skills facilitate cooperation between different professional groups and contribute to a positive work environment. A genuine interest in food and nutrition makes it easier to develop inspiring menus while keeping costs in check. Staying updated on new technology and digital tools in kitchen management can also give an advantage in the job market. Finally, patience and stress tolerance are crucial qualities, especially during high workload periods or staff shortages.

Key facts about large-scale kitchen managers

• Average salary: 41 600 SEK/month
• Typical work environment: Large kitchens within the public sector
• Educational level: High school and post-secondary education recommended
• Demand: 123 current job openings according to latest statistics
• Special skills: Leadership, finance, and food hygiene

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a large-scale kitchen manager, there are good opportunities to advance to senior positions such as kitchen manager, nutrition manager, or operations director within larger organizations. Some choose to further their education to work as dietitians, nutrition economists, or trainers in the industry. The prognosis from the Employment Service indicates stable demand within the profession, especially in the public sector where the need for qualified leaders in large kitchens is expected to remain. Digitalization and increased specialization in nutrition contribute to more opportunities for those who want to develop further within the profession. Related occupations include restaurant manager, head chef, and nutrition economist.

Frequently asked questions about large-scale kitchen managers

• What does a large-scale kitchen manager earn?
  - The average salary is 41 600 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience and education.
• How much has the salary for large-scale kitchen managers increased in recent years?
  - It has increased from 40,000 SEK (2022) to 41 600 SEK (2024), a rise of about 4%.
• What education is required to become a large-scale kitchen manager?
  - High school education in hotel and restaurant management, supplemented with post-secondary courses in nutrition, food science, or leadership is recommended.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women have an average salary of 42 400 SEK, while specific data on men is unavailable. The highest salary for men is 45,400 SEK.
• What are the job responsibilities of a large-scale kitchen manager?
  - Planning, management, personnel responsibility, procurement, budgeting, and quality assurance within large kitchens.
• What is the job market like for large-scale kitchen managers?
  - There is stable demand, with currently 123 job openings within the profession.
• What benefits are typically offered?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, subsidized meals, and opportunities for skills development are common.