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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive culinary innovation and develop exciting menus for diverse sectors.
- Company: Major hospitality and catering provider with a focus on quality and creativity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, car allowance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of food trends and make a real impact in the culinary world.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Development Chef or similar role, with strong culinary skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with travel across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 45000 £ per year.
We are seeking to recruit a Development Chef on behalf of our client, a major hospitality & catering provider operating both North & South of the border.
Role Purpose
The Development Chef is responsible for driving culinary innovation, developing commercially viable menus, and ensuring high food standards across the contract catering estate in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. This role blends creativity with operational awareness, ensuring that all food offerings meet client expectations, budget requirements, regional preferences, and legislative standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Menu & Recipe Development
- Create innovative, seasonal, and cost effective menus suitable for multiple sectors (e.g., B&I, education, healthcare, hospitality).
- Develop recipe specifications, portion sizes, allergen information, and costings.
- Adapt menus to meet regional tastes and regulatory differences between NI and ROI.
- Lead periodic menu refreshes, food trend analysis, and showcase new concepts to clients and internal teams.
- Work closely with site chefs and managers to implement new menus, standards, and food concepts.
- Conduct on site cooking demonstrations, training sessions, and quality audits.
- Support new site mobilisations and tender presentations as required.
- Troubleshoot operational challenges related to food quality, consistency, or cost control.
- Ensure food safety, allergen management, and HACCP compliance across NI and ROI.
- Uphold brand standards and ensure consistent delivery across all units.
- Maintain thorough knowledge of food legislation in both jurisdictions.
- Collaborate with procurement teams on product selection, supplier innovation days, and cost optimisation.
- Evaluate new ingredients, equipment, and culinary technologies that support efficiency and quality.
- Provide coaching and skills development for culinary teams.
- Create training materials, guides, and standard operating procedures.
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement and culinary excellence.
- Support sales and retention teams with tasting sessions, site visits, proposals, and presentations.
- Build strong relationships with clients by understanding their needs and tailoring culinary solutions to suit.
Skills, Experience & Competencies
Essential
- Proven experience as a Development Chef, Head Chef, or Executive Chef within contract catering or multi site environments.
- Strong understanding of food cost control, GP management, and commercial menu planning.
- Ability to train, motivate, and influence teams across multiple sites.
- Full driving licence and willingness to travel throughout NI and ROI.
- Excellent knowledge of HACCP, food safety, allergen legislation (including differences between UK & ROI regulations).
- Creative, trend aware approach to food with strong presentation skills.
Desirable
- Experience in tender support and client presentations.
- Familiarity with sustainable and ethical sourcing practices.
- Experience in education, B&I, healthcare, or retail catering sectors.
Personal Attributes
- Passionate about food innovation and quality.
- Strong communicator with the ability to build positive relationships.
- Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple projects.
- Comfortable working autonomously and adapting to different environments.
- Energetic, resilient, and solution focused.
Working Conditions
- Regular travel across NI and ROI.
- Occasional early starts, evenings, or weekend work for events or menu launches.
- Hands on role requiring time in kitchens, at sites, and in development sessions.
- Salary range c£45k plus £4k car allowance and benefits.
Interested candidates who meet the above criteria please forward CV in the strictest confidence.
Specialist Recruitment to the Hospitality and Leisure Industry.
Development Chef in Coventry employer: Alchemy Hospitality
Contact Detail:
Alchemy Hospitality Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Chef in Coventry
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry folks, attend culinary events, and join relevant groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on your dream Development Chef role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your culinary creativity! Prepare a few signature dishes that highlight your skills and innovation. Bring them along to interviews or networking events to leave a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t shy away from social media! Share your culinary creations and insights on platforms like Instagram or LinkedIn. It’s a great way to showcase your passion and connect with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for talented chefs like you. Plus, it’s a straightforward way to get your application in front of the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Development Chef in Coventry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Culinary Creativity: When crafting your application, let your passion for food innovation shine through! Share examples of how you've developed unique menus or recipes that cater to different sectors. We want to see your creative flair!
Highlight Your Operational Know-How: Make sure to mention your experience with food safety and compliance, especially in relation to HACCP and allergen management. We’re looking for someone who can blend creativity with operational awareness, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to adapt your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the Development Chef role. Mention your understanding of regional preferences in NI and ROI, as well as any relevant experience in contract catering.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your journey with us at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Alchemy Hospitality
✨Know Your Menus Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with a variety of menus and culinary trends. Be ready to discuss how you would adapt menus for different sectors and regional preferences, especially between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
✨Showcase Your Creativity
Prepare to share examples of your past menu innovations and how they were received. Bring along a portfolio or samples of your work that highlight your creativity and presentation skills, as this role is all about culinary innovation.
✨Understand Compliance and Standards
Brush up on your knowledge of food safety, allergen management, and HACCP compliance. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure these standards are met across multiple sites, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Skills
Think of specific instances where you’ve trained or motivated teams in a kitchen environment. Be ready to explain how you foster a culture of continuous improvement and culinary excellence among your colleagues.