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- Tasks: Drive culinary innovation and develop exciting menus across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
- Company: Major hospitality & catering provider with a focus on creativity and quality.
- 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 and management skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with travel across NI and ROI, offering hands-on kitchen experience.
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. 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.
Menu & Recipe Development
- 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.
- Troubleshoot operational challenges related to food quality, consistency, or cost control.
Quality, Standards & Compliance
- 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.
Supplier & Product Development
- Evaluate new ingredients, equipment, and culinary technologies that support efficiency and quality.
Training & Team Development
- Provide coaching and skills development for culinary teams.
Client Engagement & Business Development
- 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.
- 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.
- Passionate about food innovation and quality.
- Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple projects.
- 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.
Development Kitchen Chef employer: Alchemy Hospitality
Contact Detail:
Alchemy Hospitality Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Kitchen Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend culinary events, and join relevant groups. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Development Chef role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best menu designs and culinary innovations. A visual representation of your work can really impress potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings; reach out directly to companies you admire. Express your interest in their culinary vision and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep learning! Stay updated on food trends and regulations in both NI and ROI. This knowledge will not only boost your confidence but also make you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Development Kitchen Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Culinary Passion: When writing your application, let your love for food shine through! Share your experiences and what drives your creativity in the kitchen. We want to see how you can bring innovation to our menus.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience in contract catering and multi-site environments. We’re looking for someone who understands the unique challenges of this role, so show us you get it!
Highlight Compliance Knowledge: Since food safety and compliance are key, don’t forget to mention your knowledge of HACCP and allergen legislation. We need someone who can ensure our standards are met across both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing talent out there. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Alchemy Hospitality
✨Know Your Culinary Trends
Make sure to brush up on the latest food trends and innovations. Being able to discuss current culinary movements and how they can be adapted for regional tastes will show your creativity and awareness, which is crucial for a Development Chef.
✨Understand Compliance Inside Out
Familiarise yourself with HACCP, food safety, and allergen legislation, especially the differences between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. This knowledge is essential, and demonstrating it in your interview will highlight your operational awareness.
✨Showcase Your Menu Development Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples of menus you've developed or refreshed in the past. Be ready to explain your thought process, how you incorporated client feedback, and how you ensured compliance with budget and quality standards.
✨Engage with Client Scenarios
Think about potential challenges you might face when working with clients or site chefs. Prepare to discuss how you would troubleshoot issues related to food quality or cost control, as this will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and hands-on approach.