At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team, crafting delicious meals and ensuring top-notch service.
- Company: Join Dine Contract Catering, a leader in tailored food services with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a Monday to Friday schedule, competitive salary, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team aiming for Climate Zero by 2030 while showcasing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Previous experience in a similar role and strong leadership skills are essential.
- Other info: Dine values diversity and empowers all team members to thrive.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 42000 £ per year.
Fixed Term contract for 6 months. Up to £35,000 per annum (pro-rota) depending on experience. Monday to Friday role!
We are looking for a talented, enthusiastic Head Chef for our dedicated Dine Contract Catering team producing outstanding food using the finest and freshest ingredients in this prestigious contract.
About the role
- Services include breakfast, lunch, hospitality and coffee shop.
- 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.
About You
- Previous experience in a similar role ideally within a contract catering environment.
- 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.
If you've got what it takes to join some of the food service industry's best and brightest, we want to hear from you.
For more information about careers at Dine Contract Catering and our benefits please visit: Careers at Dine Contract Catering.
Contact Detail:
ESS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Fixed Term Head Chef - Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in sustainable cooking and local sourcing. Since this role emphasises sustainability and using fresh, local ingredients, showcasing your knowledge in these areas during your interview can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing a kitchen team effectively. Highlight specific examples where you've motivated your team or improved service delivery, as this is crucial for the Head Chef position.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Dine Contract Catering's values and mission, especially their commitment to reaching Climate Zero by 2030. Being able to align your personal culinary philosophy with their goals will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the contract catering industry. Engaging with others in the field can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Fixed Term Head Chef - Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in contract catering and showcases your culinary skills. Emphasise any previous roles where you managed a team or contributed to sustainability initiatives.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality and your understanding of the company's mission. Mention specific examples of how you've driven sales through menu planning or improved kitchen operations in past roles.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on key skills mentioned in the job description, such as food safety knowledge, budgeting experience, and team management. Use concrete examples to demonstrate these skills.
Showcase Your Personality: Since the role emphasises creating a positive kitchen environment, let your personality shine through in your application. Share anecdotes that illustrate your leadership style and ability to inspire a team.
How to prepare for a job interview at ESS
✨Showcase Your Culinary Passion
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for cooking and hospitality. Share specific examples of dishes you've created or innovative menu ideas that align with the company's focus on sustainability and local sourcing.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Highlight your experience in managing and motivating a kitchen team. Discuss how you've created a positive work environment and supported team development, as this is crucial for the role of Head Chef.
✨Understand the Business Side
Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of budgeting, food costing, and profit margins. Show that you understand how these elements impact the kitchen's success and the overall business.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Food Safety Standards
Make sure you can talk confidently about food safety regulations, including HACCP and Natasha's Law. This will demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high standards in the kitchen.