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- Tasks: Lead culinary innovation and create exciting menus while managing kitchen operations.
- Company: Join Compass Group UK&I, a diverse and inclusive workplace that values your unique talents.
- Benefits: Enjoy perks like discounts on travel, groceries, cinema tickets, and wellness classes.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that prioritises creativity, quality, and customer satisfaction.
- Qualifications: Must have 2+ years of culinary education and 5+ years of relevant experience.
- Other info: This role offers opportunities for career growth and personal development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We ensure you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:
- Contributory pension scheme
- Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
- Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
- Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more
- Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and many more
- Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
- Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
- Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
- You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families
Role Details:
- Creating an overall vision and plan for the food outlets.
- Designing innovative menus with the management teams support to suit the theme of the outlets.
- Designing dish rotation to fit the menu and keeping customers returning to try new offers.
- Developing menus and item pricing.
- Sourcing ingredients for the menus, and keeping stock levels fully up-to-date.
- Keeping the kitchen fully equipped with all the tools and inventory.
- Ensuring that the quality of food is consistently high and that hygiene standards are exceeded.
- Organising, employing, training new staff and motivating staff in the kitchen and on the restaurant floor.
- Organising budgets and finances for the kitchen.
- Assisting kitchen staff with food prep and dish creation.
- Purchasing food and supplies from vendors approved by the company.
The post-holder oversees the professional and line management of the Chef team and has responsibility for driving up the standards of the catering offer through innovation and positive change. This post is predominantly craft based, working alongside the Chefs daily to develop individuals and improve the catering provision. There should be a clear vision for the future services offered, in all locations from core feeding, pop ups, coffee shops, franchise partners and hospitality events, and to deliver food presentation and service in an exciting and modern way.
Executive Chef Role Requirements:
- Excellent knowledge of culinary ingredients and practices.
- Technical cooking skills.
- Creative skills.
- Proven leadership skills and the ability to motivate staff.
- Ability to delegate tasks.
- Organisational and administrative skills.
- To lead, demonstrate and deliver the highest of food standards in keeping with the companies’ principles.
- To align yourself to the Contract Manager to identify objectives for their business.
- These will be culinary based and focused on enhancing food quality and driving consistency across the Contract.
- Roll out the food concepts, offers and innovative ideas that are developed with the National Exec Chef.
- To lead in the overall food operational duties, encouraging and directing any in unit lead chef roles.
- To support the operations teams and location managers in delivery of quality food standards.
- To control and achieve agreed financial targets whilst maximising all commercial opportunities.
- To train, identify and support the development of chefs across the Kitchens you manage.
- To ensure that customers are given a prompt and efficient service, and expectations are consistently exceeded.
- To ensure all food is cooked, presented, and served in line with company standards, demonstrating innovation in the method and style of presentation and food service.
- To attend any client or company meetings as requested.
2+ years of culinary education. 5+ years of experience in a similar position. Advanced knowledge of food professional principles and practices. Proficient knowledge of human resources management. Excellent knowledge of BOH systems, ordering and inventory.
The successful candidate would need to have a City & Guilds 706/1&2 or NVQ level 3 in catering, or equivalent, with a CIEH Level 3 Award in Food Safety in Catering. Previous experience in a similar role is essential along with the ability to manage a team and work effectively under pressure.
About Us:
Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!
Culinary Director (Hiring Immediately) employer: Compass Group
Contact Detail:
Compass Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Culinary Director (Hiring Immediately)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the culinary field. Attend industry events, workshops, or culinary competitions to meet potential colleagues and employers. Building relationships can often lead to job opportunities that aren't advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your creativity by developing a unique dish or menu concept that reflects your culinary style. Bring this to interviews or networking events to demonstrate your innovative thinking and passion for food.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest culinary trends and techniques. Being knowledgeable about current food movements can set you apart from other candidates and show your commitment to the industry.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your leadership experiences in detail. Think of specific examples where you've motivated a team or improved kitchen operations, as this role requires strong management skills.
We think you need these skills to ace Culinary Director (Hiring Immediately)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant culinary experience, leadership skills, and any specific achievements in menu design or team management. Use keywords from the job description to align your experience with what the company is looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for culinary arts and how your vision aligns with the company's goals. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully led teams or innovated menus in previous roles.
Showcase Your Culinary Knowledge: Include details about your culinary education and any certifications you hold, such as City & Guilds or NVQ qualifications. Highlight your understanding of food safety standards and BOH systems, as these are crucial for the role.
Demonstrate Leadership Skills: Provide examples of how you've motivated and trained kitchen staff in the past. Discuss your approach to managing budgets and achieving financial targets, as this will show your capability to handle the operational aspects of the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group
✨Showcase Your Culinary Vision
Prepare to discuss your overall vision for the food outlets. Think about innovative menu ideas and how you would design dish rotations to keep customers coming back for more.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led and motivated a kitchen team in the past. Highlight your ability to delegate tasks effectively and train new staff.
✨Discuss Financial Acumen
Understand the financial aspects of running a kitchen. Be prepared to talk about how you've managed budgets, controlled costs, and maximised commercial opportunities in previous roles.
✨Emphasise Quality and Innovation
Talk about your commitment to high food standards and hygiene. Share any innovative ideas you've implemented in food presentation and service that align with modern culinary trends.
