Conference and Banqueting Head Chef
Conference and Banqueting Head Chef

Conference and Banqueting Head Chef

Horsham Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the kitchen for events, creating delicious menus and ensuring top-notch food quality.
  • Company: Join a vibrant hotel group that values personality and character in its team.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, 29 days holiday, discounts, free meals, and gym access.
  • Why this job: Be part of a creative team that values innovation and delivers amazing guest experiences.
  • Qualifications: Experience in a similar role, strong kitchen background, and a passion for food required.
  • Other info: Flexibility to work varied hours, including evenings and weekends, is essential.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

Job Introduction
In a Nutshell
A very rare opportunity has arisen for a passionate and creative Head Chef – Banqueting . Reporting to the Executive Head Chef, you will help prepare and cook delicious food for our Conference & Banqueting Outlets.
You will be responsible for overseeing the food and kitchen operations for the Conference & Banqueting department, to include but not limited to, weddings, private dinners, functions, parties, meetings, conferences and events. You will lead and inspire the kitchen and service teams with a culture that delivers an amazing guest experience.
Menu development will be an important part of this role with a thorough understanding and passion for food, flavours and seasonal ingredients. A key eye for local and current food trends will be integral to this role.
INDHP
Role Responsibility
Lots to do but lots of fun

  • Liaise with relevant Managers and Chefs daily to confirm and deliver all catering needs.
  • Creating and assisting in the production of suitable menu designs for the relevant event or area of food service within the hotel.
  • Ensuring the quality of food and standards of presentation are of the exceptional levels expected when dining at the hotel.
  • Evaluate Industry trends and initiate product improvements to ensure we remain competitive and leaders in our market.
  • Staff recruitment, appraisals and performance management – inclusive of payroll forms and ATR\’s to budgeted levels.
  • Assisting the team in the smooth, safe and efficient running of the kitchen operation
  • Working with the Executive Chef, to coach and guide new members of the team, putting in place proper induction training and ongoing training and development for all.
  • To assess employee performance and recognise training needs and potential as appropriate.
  • Follow Hotel procedures with respect to grooming, performance and conduct standards, occupational health and safety, emergency procedures and all other hotel policies and procedures as detailed in the employee handbook.
  • Manage the communication throughout the kitchen for any business activity, encourage team work and flexibility.
  • Managing relationships with contractors and suppliers.
  • Fully understanding food GP margins and ensuring these are adhered to and achieved consistently, through close liaison with the Executive Chef.
  • Housekeeping and general preventative Maintenance of the kitchen ensuring equipment and facilities are in good working order. Structural issues are addressed and Maintenance log maintained.
  • Manage stock control and food purchasing in line with hotel requirements
  • Working with the Executive Chef, to plan the yearly food revenue and profit targets to meet the required GP%.
  • Developing new menus and food items in line with the tastes and dining requirements of the hotel guests and visitors.

The Ideal Candidate
Are you right for us?
Our ideal candidate will have;

  • Previous experience in a similar role in a conference centre or luxury hotel.
  • Strong kitchen background from within hotel or restaurant sector, preferably at a 5* and Rosette standard.
  • You should have a true passion for food.
  • Strong communication skills (verbal, listening, writing).
  • Commercially astute and financially aware.
  • Highly organised.
  • Proven record as a strong team leader.
  • Flexibility to work hours required by the business (5 days out of 7 to include evenings, weekends and bank holidays)
  • Commitment and mobility Innovation, creativity and attention to detail

Package Description
And now for the good stuff
Hospitality is all about looking after people and we are committed to our people. We work hard to ensure you can enjoy your job and are well rewarded. As well as excellent training, development and progression opportunities, other benefits include:

  • Competitive salary, benefits and we pay above the Real Living Wage.
  • 29 days holiday (increasing with length of service)
  • We operate a discretionary service charge system.
  • 50% Discount on food and beverage across all Exclusive properties
  • Really big discounts of room nights across all Exclusive properties
  • EAP provided by Hospitality Action
  • Hospitality Essentials discount platform – giving you access to 1,000+ shopping discounts, cashback deals, and online exercise, wellbeing & finance guides
  • Meals on duty provided for free
  • Recognition and rewards scheme
  • Access to our learning platform including great training and development programs.
  • Free gym access + where available dedicated classes.
  • B Corp accredited and commitment to improving our People, Product and Planet.
  • Free downloads to newspapers, magazines and books
  • Cycle to work scheme

About the Company
Are we right for you?
Like any hotel group we expect a lot but we\’ll give a lot to get the right people. These are the things we are looking for:

  1. We want people with bags of character. We don\’t want you to hide your personality when you\’re at work, we want you to feel comfortable, to be who you are.
  2. We want people people. You\’ve got to like being around others, smiling and chatting because you like people, not because someone told you to smile and chat.
  3. We need extra milers. So if you think the job description is all you have to do, then we\’re not for you.
  4. You have to put your heart into it. When you tell a guest you\’re happy to help, you have to mean it.

Conference and Banqueting Head Chef employer: Exclusive Collection

Join a vibrant hotel group that values creativity and passion in the kitchen, offering a supportive work culture where your culinary talents can truly shine. With competitive salaries, extensive training and development opportunities, and a commitment to employee well-being, you'll find a rewarding environment that encourages personal growth and innovation. Enjoy unique benefits such as generous discounts across properties, free meals on duty, and access to wellness resources, all while being part of a team that celebrates individuality and teamwork.
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Contact Detail:

Exclusive Collection Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Conference and Banqueting Head Chef

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the latest food trends and seasonal ingredients. This knowledge will not only help you in menu development but also show your passion for food during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the hospitality industry, especially those who have experience in conference and banqueting roles. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you inspire kitchen teams. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed a team and improved kitchen operations in previous roles.

✨Tip Number 4

Research the company culture and values of StudySmarter. Understanding what they prioritise can help you tailor your approach and demonstrate that you're a good fit for their team.

We think you need these skills to ace Conference and Banqueting Head Chef

Menu Development
Food Presentation Skills
Team Leadership
Communication Skills
Financial Acumen
Organisational Skills
Creativity in Food Preparation
Knowledge of Food Trends
Stock Control Management
Health and Safety Compliance
Training and Development
Supplier Relationship Management
Event Catering Experience
Flexibility in Working Hours

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in banqueting and conference settings. Emphasise your leadership skills, creativity in menu development, and any previous roles in luxury hotels or restaurants.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for food and hospitality. Mention specific examples of how you've led kitchen teams, developed menus, or improved food quality in past roles. Show that you understand the importance of guest experience.

Showcase Your Knowledge of Trends: Demonstrate your awareness of current food trends and seasonal ingredients in your application. This could be through mentioning specific dishes you've created or how you've adapted menus to meet changing tastes.

Highlight Team Leadership Experience: Since the role requires strong team leadership, include examples of how you've successfully managed kitchen staff, conducted training, and fostered a positive working environment. This will show your capability to inspire and lead a team.

How to prepare for a job interview at Exclusive Collection

✨Showcase Your Passion for Food

As a Head Chef, your love for food should shine through. Be prepared to discuss your culinary journey, favourite dishes, and how you stay updated with food trends. This will demonstrate your genuine enthusiasm for the role.

✨Prepare for Menu Development Questions

Expect questions about menu creation and seasonal ingredients. Have examples ready of menus you've developed in the past, highlighting your creativity and understanding of guest preferences.

✨Emphasise Leadership Skills

This role requires strong leadership. Be ready to share experiences where you've successfully led a team, managed conflicts, or trained new staff. Highlight your ability to inspire and motivate others in a high-pressure environment.

✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen

Understanding food GP margins is crucial. Prepare to discuss how you've managed budgets, controlled costs, and improved profitability in previous roles. This shows that you're not just a creative chef but also commercially savvy.

Conference and Banqueting Head Chef
Exclusive Collection

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