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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team to create delicious, sustainable meals for up to 2000 customers daily.
- Company: Eurest is a leader in workplace catering, committed to sustainability and quality food experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy meal perks, financial wellness programmes, healthcare checks, shopping discounts, and ongoing training.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team focused on innovation, work-life balance, and making a positive impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in contract catering, strong culinary skills, and a passion for hospitality are essential.
- Other info: Monday to Friday role with opportunities for career development and a supportive kitchen environment.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 35000 £ per year.
We are looking for a talented, enthusiastic Head Chef for our dedicated catering team in Leeds, producing outstanding food using the finest and freshest ingredients in this prestigious contract.
At Eurest, we are the experts in workplace catering, operating in over 700 workspaces every day. We know that fuelling employees throughout the day can help to sharpen their thinking, nourish their bodies and minds and ultimately, motivate them to perform at their best. Our workplace food experiences are driven by our promise to live more sustainably and responsibly, working towards our goal of net zero by 2030.
If you are an innovative and creative Chef, passionate about using top quality fresh ingredients, and looking for a role which can offer both work life balance and career development - we want to hear from you!
About the roleServices: Breakfast, Lunch, Vending Retail Coffee Shop and Hospitality
- In a team of 12 with 2 direct reports and up to 2000 customers on site
- Plan, organise, innovate and direct the preparation and cooking of food to ensure the company's reputation for quality is enhanced with customers and clients at all times.
- Drive ours and our clients sustainability mission to be net zero by 2030.
- Create a positive kitchen environment where your team feel welcomed, supported and developed.
- Focus on service execution and delivery excellence at all times.
- Drive sales through menu planning and promotions.
- Responsible for implementing and maintaining high levels of cleanliness, food safety, HS and COSHH within the kitchen.
- Maintain food monitoring procedures to facilitate budgetary control and monitor all costs involved in the kitchen against agreed budgets.
- Maintain the centre of excellence in food and customer service.
- Previous experience in a similar role in contract catering with hospitality and events
- Ability to successfully motivate and manage a team to deliver consistent standards
- Excellent and innovative culinary and presentation skills
- Passionate about all things hospitality with excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Leads and inspires a team with a progressive mindset in developing people
- A clear understanding of profit margins, purchasing policy, budgeting and food costing.
- Stock and Waste control experience
- Understanding of food management systems HACCP, Food Safety, Health and Safety, Natasha's Law, Allergens and Manual Handling.
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:
- Meal provided while on duty
- Financial wellbeing programme and preferred rates on salary finance products
- Aviva Digi care - Free annual healthcare check
- Medicash - Discounted health cash plan providing cash back on a range of medical treatments including Dental, Optical and Consultant appointments for you and your family.
- Pension scheme and Life Assurance
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Recognition awards including Be a Star peer recognition and Long Service Awards
- Exclusive Benefits & Wellbeing site (Perks at Work)
- Shopping discounts - Save up to 15% at high street and online stores by purchasing Shopping Cards
- On-going training & development and career pathways
We’re people-powered at Eurest. It’s an understatement to say that we’re passionate about what we do, which is why we’re committed to attracting the best and brightest people to join us - could that be you?
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!
Contact Detail:
Compass Group UK & Ireland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Eurest's sustainability mission. As a Head Chef, you'll be expected to drive this initiative, so understanding their goals and how you can contribute will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've motivated and developed your team in previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Research current food trends and innovative culinary techniques. Being able to discuss these during your interview will demonstrate your passion for the industry and your commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with budgeting and cost control. Since maintaining profit margins is key in this role, having concrete examples of how you've successfully managed kitchen costs will strengthen your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef - Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in contract catering and hospitality. Emphasise your culinary skills, team management experience, and any achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive quality and sustainability.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for food and hospitality. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed a kitchen or led a team, and express your enthusiasm for Eurest's commitment to sustainability and quality.
Showcase Your Culinary Creativity: If possible, include a portfolio or examples of your culinary creations. This could be photos of dishes you've prepared or menus you've designed, demonstrating your innovative approach to cooking and presentation.
Highlight Relevant Certifications: Include any relevant certifications related to food safety, health and safety, or culinary arts. This will show your commitment to maintaining high standards in the kitchen and your understanding of important regulations.
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group UK & Ireland
✨Showcase Your Culinary Creativity
As a Head Chef, your ability to innovate is key. Prepare to discuss your unique culinary creations and how you can bring fresh ideas to the menu. Consider bringing a portfolio of your dishes or recipes to demonstrate your skills.
✨Emphasise Team Leadership Skills
Eurest values a positive kitchen environment. Be ready to share examples of how you've motivated and developed your team in previous roles. Highlight your leadership style and how you foster collaboration and support among your staff.
✨Understand Sustainability Practices
With a focus on sustainability, it's crucial to show your knowledge of eco-friendly practices in the kitchen. Discuss any experience you have with sourcing local ingredients, reducing waste, or implementing sustainable cooking methods.
✨Prepare for Budget Management Questions
Since the role involves budgetary control, be prepared to discuss your experience with food costing, stock control, and managing profit margins. Have specific examples ready that demonstrate your financial acumen in a kitchen setting.
