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- Tasks: Lead a kitchen team and create delicious dishes for exciting events.
- Company: Join a dynamic and growing company in the Northampton area.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and a friendly, supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Showcase your culinary skills in a fast-paced, rewarding atmosphere.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in event catering and valid food hygiene certification required.
- Other info: Own transport is essential; flexible hours on event days.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Are you an experienced and passionate chef with a flair for event catering? We’re looking for a skilled Lead Chef to join our team in the Northampton area. This is an exciting opportunity to showcase your talent and play a key role in our dynamic culinary team.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage the kitchen team for various events
- Prepare and cook high-quality dishes for large events, adhering to strict food hygiene standards
- Coordinate food preparation, cooking, and presentation in live cooking environments
- Manage food stock and ensure all items meet quality standards
- Maintain a clean and safe kitchen environment in line with food hygiene regulations
- Ensure compliance with allergen safety and food safety guidelines
Requirements:
- Minimum 2 years of experience in event catering
- Own transport is essential
- Valid food hygiene training certification
- Allergen training is an advantage
- Previous experience in live cooking (on-site catering) is highly desirable
- Excellent leadership, organisational, and time-management skills
- Ability to work under pressure and manage a team effectively
Working Hours:
- 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM (for event days)
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Opportunity to work in a dynamic and growing company
- Friendly and supportive team environment
If you are ready to take on a leadership role in a fast-paced and rewarding environment, we want to hear from you! Please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your experience and why you would be a great fit for the role.
Please note that at times due to the volume of applications we may not be able to respond to each person individually. If you do not hear from us within 7 days we’re sorry you have not been successful this time. Please do not let this stop you applying for other positions you may be suitable for. Good Luck!
1st Choice Staff Recruitment is an equal opportunities employer and acts as both an Employment Agency & Business.
Experienced Lead Chef employer: 1st Choice Rec
Contact Detail:
1st Choice Rec Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Experienced Lead Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Network with local event planners and venues in the Northampton area. Building relationships with these professionals can lead to opportunities where your skills as a Lead Chef will be in high demand.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your culinary creations on social media or a personal website. Highlighting your experience in event catering and live cooking can attract attention from potential employers looking for someone with your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Attend local food festivals or culinary events to meet other chefs and industry professionals. This can help you stay updated on trends and may lead to job opportunities in event catering.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider volunteering at events to gain more experience in live cooking environments. This not only enhances your skills but also expands your network, making it easier to land a job as a Lead Chef.
We think you need these skills to ace Experienced Lead Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in event catering, particularly any leadership roles you've held. Emphasise your skills in managing a kitchen team and your ability to work under pressure.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, explain why you're passionate about event catering and how your experience aligns with the job requirements. Mention specific examples of successful events you've catered for and your approach to maintaining food hygiene standards.
Highlight Relevant Certifications: Include any relevant certifications, such as your food hygiene training and allergen training, in your application. This will demonstrate your commitment to food safety and compliance with industry standards.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Use your application to illustrate your leadership and organisational skills. Provide examples of how you've effectively managed a team in a high-pressure environment, especially during live cooking events.
How to prepare for a job interview at 1st Choice Rec
✨Showcase Your Culinary Skills
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in event catering and highlight specific dishes you've created. If possible, bring a portfolio or photos of your work to demonstrate your skills.
✨Emphasise Leadership Experience
As a Lead Chef, you'll need to manage a team effectively. Share examples of how you've successfully led a kitchen team in the past, focusing on your leadership style and how you handle pressure.
✨Know Your Food Safety Regulations
Familiarise yourself with food hygiene standards and allergen safety guidelines. Be ready to discuss how you ensure compliance in your kitchen, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Live Cooking Scenarios
Since live cooking is a key part of the job, think about how you would handle a busy event. Prepare to answer questions about your time management and organisational skills in high-pressure situations.
