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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Create innovative menus and collaborate with chefs to elevate food quality.
- Company: Join a fast-growing hospitality group in Manchester, known for creativity and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonuses, and opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a vibrant environment while staying ahead of food trends.
- Qualifications: Experience in a senior chef role with a passion for high-quality, creative food.
- Other info: Work between a central kitchen and various venues, leading tastings and training sessions.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 54000 £ per year.
Are you a creative and passionate chef with a flair for innovation and a love for collaboration? We’re working with an amazing and fast-growing hospitality group based in Manchester that’s looking for a Development Chef to join their dynamic team.
About the Role:
This is an exciting, hands-on role where you'll be working closely with a diverse portfolio of venues and event businesses across Manchester and beyond. You’ll be based between a central production kitchen and working on-site alongside talented Head Chefs to bring fresh ideas to life, support menu innovation, and elevate food quality across the board.
What You’ll Be Doing:
- Developing seasonal, innovative menus tailored to a wide range of venues and events.
- Collaborating with venue chefs to roll out new concepts and ensure consistency and excellence.
- Leading tastings, training, and development sessions across the business.
- Working closely with senior stakeholders to align culinary direction with brand identity.
- Staying ahead of food trends to keep the offering exciting and commercially on point.
What We’re Looking For:
- Proven experience in a senior chef role – ideally with multi-site or development experience.
- A passion for high-quality, creative food with a commercial mindset.
- Strong leadership, mentoring and communication skills.
- Experience working in event catering, hospitality groups, or central production a bonus.
- Hands-on approach with a drive to make things happen.
Why Join?
- Be part of an inspiring, creative, and supportive company that’s growing fast.
- Work across a vibrant portfolio with a real opportunity to make an impact.
- Enjoy a competitive salary up to £45,000 plus bonus and benefits.
- Real scope for growth and development as the company continues to scale.
Development Chef employer: Westwood Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Westwood Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Network with other chefs and industry professionals in Manchester. Attend local food events, workshops, or culinary competitions to meet potential colleagues and showcase your passion for innovative cooking.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on the latest food trends and culinary techniques. Follow influential chefs and food blogs on social media to gather inspiration and demonstrate your knowledge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in menu development and collaboration with other chefs. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led tastings or training sessions.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Westwood Hospitality and their portfolio of venues. Understanding their brand identity and culinary direction will help you align your ideas with their vision during discussions.
We think you need these skills to ace Development Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Development Chef position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in menu development and collaboration with other chefs.
Craft a Compelling CV: Your CV should showcase your culinary skills, leadership experience, and any innovative projects you've worked on. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to create seasonal menus and work in a fast-paced environment.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for high-quality food and your creative approach to culinary challenges. Mention your experience in event catering or multi-site operations, and explain why you want to join this particular hospitality group.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in the culinary industry.
How to prepare for a job interview at Westwood Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Creativity
As a Development Chef, creativity is key. Prepare to discuss your innovative ideas and how you've successfully implemented them in previous roles. Bring examples of unique dishes or menus you've developed that highlight your flair for culinary innovation.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration Skills
This role involves working closely with various chefs and stakeholders. Be ready to share experiences where you collaborated effectively with others, perhaps in menu development or training sessions. Highlight your ability to communicate and lead within a team.
✨Stay Ahead of Food Trends
Research current food trends and be prepared to discuss how they can be integrated into the company's offerings. Showing that you are knowledgeable about the latest culinary movements will demonstrate your passion and commitment to staying relevant in the industry.
✨Prepare for Practical Assessments
Given the hands-on nature of the role, you may be asked to participate in a practical cooking assessment. Brush up on your skills and be ready to showcase your technique, presentation, and ability to create dishes under pressure.
