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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering team to create nutritious meals for students.
- Company: Join Lexington Independents, dedicated to providing fresh and sustainable food for young people.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' wellbeing while working in a vibrant educational setting.
- Qualifications: Must have 2+ years as an Executive Chef or Head Chef with strong leadership skills.
- Other info: DBS check required; we prioritise safeguarding children and colleagues.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This role based at Paddington Academy, United Learning's flagship school sits within our Education division – catering for students. Dedicated to providing high-quality, nutritious, fresh, and sustainable food for our younger generation, we're 100% committed to supporting a healthy diet. At Lexington Independents, we're driven by the knowledge that young people deserve and need the best food for their wellbeing; we do food with a difference.
Lexington is committed to safeguarding children and colleagues. Candidates that are shortlisted for this role will be required to have an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, including Children's Barred List, and two suitable references.
What you’ll be doing…
- Proactively managing and supporting a large catering team (15+) as well as creating a platform for financial growth through cost control and culinary excellence.
- Recruiting, training, supporting and people development to deliver an efficient, high quality service to Lexington, customer and client.
- Maintaining, ordering and controlling food stocks within budget.
- Menu writing, innovation and ideas that appeal to the clientele.
- Ensuring ongoing team communications, including building internal and external relationships, management reporting and client liaison to enable operational excellence.
- Accountable for COSHH, Food Safety, H&S, legal regulations, environmental policies and duty of care to customer and colleagues.
What can you bring?
- Proven leadership ability with a proactive, hands-on approach.
- Genuine interest in customer service excellence.
- Focused on the front line.
- Catering experience essential with chef skills.
- 2+ years experience as Executive Chef or Head Chef ready for their next step.
Executive Chef employer: Lexington Independents
Contact Detail:
Lexington Independents Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the catering and education sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who may have insights or connections at Lexington Independents.
✨Tip Number 2
Research Lexington Independents thoroughly. Understand their values, mission, and the specific needs of the students at Paddington Academy. This knowledge will help you tailor your approach during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed large teams in the past. Be ready to share specific examples that demonstrate your ability to foster a positive team environment and drive culinary excellence.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your creativity in menu writing and innovation. Think about how you can incorporate sustainable practices into your culinary offerings, as this aligns with Lexington's commitment to providing nutritious food for young people.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in catering and leadership. Emphasise your skills in managing a team, menu writing, and cost control, as these are crucial for the Executive Chef role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for providing nutritious food for young people. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams and improved service quality in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Include any culinary qualifications or certifications you have, especially those related to food safety and health regulations. This will demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high standards in the kitchen.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: In your application, describe your leadership approach and how you foster a positive team environment. Provide examples of how you've trained and developed staff to enhance service delivery.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lexington Independents
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Executive Chef, you'll be managing a large team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully led a team in the past. Highlight any training or development initiatives you've implemented.
✨Demonstrate Your Culinary Expertise
Expect questions about your culinary skills and experience. Bring along a portfolio of your menu creations or any innovative dishes you've developed. This will help illustrate your creativity and ability to cater to diverse clientele.
✨Discuss Cost Control Strategies
Financial growth is key in this role. Be ready to talk about your experience with budgeting, cost control, and how you've managed food stocks effectively. Providing specific examples will show your understanding of the business side of catering.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Quality and Safety
Given the importance of food safety and legal regulations, be prepared to discuss your knowledge of COSHH, Food Safety, and H&S practices. Share how you ensure compliance and maintain high standards in your kitchen.
