Hospitality Chef

Bekynton is the central catering facility in Eton College, predominantly catering for breakfast, lunch, and supper for all the boys of 12 out of the 25 boarding houses. Bekynton currently serves around 15,000 meals per week over 37 weeks per year, equalling 555,000 meals per annum and growing! Bekynton also prepares and delivers 32,000 packed meals for sports events around the campus, 9,500 hot and cold sports teas each year, and has catered in 64 differing venues around Eton. Many community events are catered for, including House Events and the Eton Action Fair.

You will be instrumental in crafting exceptional dining experiences at Eton College and Dorney Lake.

Benefits

Eton College offers a wide range of benefits, including:

• 11% employer contribution to your pension (with 4.9% employee contribution)
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Enhanced Maternity / Paternity scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Subsidised lunches during term time
• Free or heavily discounted access to the College's sport and leisure facilities
• Discounts at local retailers and businesses

Main Duties

Key Tasks and Responsibilities:

• Be a visual and approachable culinary figurehead for Hospitality at Eton College and Dorney.
• Ensure timely and efficient preparation of all hospitality within all catering areas and venues within the School.
• Ensure food production meets client expectations of delivering the very best food and service.
• Manage all aspects of service planning and execution of Fine Dining, Casual Dining, Conferences, and House requirements.
• Motivate and inspire others around you to get excited about food and culinary creativity.
• Adhere to all current Food Safety and Health and Safety regulations.
• Deliver a first-class hospitality experience to all Eton College stakeholders.
• Take full accountability and lead the hospitality kitchen team.
• Ensure all customers have a first-class experience with prompt and efficient service.
• Plan for success by concentrating on attention to detail of both standards and service.
• Manage resources and promote teamwork and a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Assess and monitor team performance, recognising the need for training and development.
• Ensure uniform and appearance meet company specifications at all times.
• Complete all preparation for functions well ahead of any event.
• Undertake occasional duties outside the normal routine but within the scope of the position.

All employees of Eton College are also expected to:

• Develop a good understanding of safeguarding procedures.
• Demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
• Understand and comply with procedures and legislation relating to confidentiality.
• Display a commitment to and promotion of equality, diversity, and inclusion.

The Ideal Candidate

To be successful in this role, the incumbent should have:

• Previous chef experience within restaurant, hotel, contract catering, or similar environment.
• A relevant catering qualification (NVQ Level 2) is desirable.
• A passion for delivering high standards in food, service, and customer care.
• A Basic food hygiene certificate as a minimum.
• Excellent understanding of high-level hospitality.
• The ability to communicate effectively with customers, clients, and staff.
• A calm, professional manner with strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• A clear understanding of Health and Safety legislation.
• A clear understanding of Food Hygiene legislation.
• The ability to lead and motivate a team.
• The ability to manage food allergens in accordance with the school's processes and procedures.

You may also enjoy this role if you:

• Have a flexible approach to work and a can-do attitude.
• Have great attention to detail and take pride in your work.
• Have the ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Enjoy working as part of a team and support your colleagues.
• Can come up with creative solutions to problems.

Working Pattern

Your working hours will be 42.5 hours per week, working 5 days a week (including evenings and weekends), for 48 weeks per year: 34 weeks term time, 6 weeks summer schools, 2 weeks out of term work, and 6 weeks paid holiday entitlement.

About The College

We are an equal opportunities employer and are seeking applications from suitable candidates from all backgrounds. We are dedicated to creating and sustaining an environment that values individuality and difference and celebrates diversity.

If you have any queries about the application process or any problem with submitting your application online, the Recruitment Team will be happy to help.

Should you require any reasonable adjustments to be made or facilities provided to enable you to apply online, please do not hesitate to contact us.

DISCLOSURE CHECKS

Eton College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post.