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- Tasks: Drive culinary innovation and develop exciting menus across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
- 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 and management skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with travel across NI and ROI, perfect for food enthusiasts.
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 in Leeds employer: Alchemy Hospitality
Contact Detail:
Alchemy Hospitality Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Kitchen Chef in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the hospitality and catering industry. Attend events, join culinary groups, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the lookout for a Development Chef role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your culinary creativity! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, bring along a portfolio of your best menu ideas and recipes. This is your chance to demonstrate your innovative approach to food and how you can adapt menus to regional tastes.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those cooking demos! If you land an interview that includes a practical element, make sure you practice your presentation skills. Showcase not just your cooking prowess but also your ability to engage and train others – that’s what they’ll be looking for!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might just be perfect for you. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you a leg up in the process. So, get your application in and let’s get you that Development Chef role!
We think you need these skills to ace Development Kitchen Chef in Leeds
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 your personality and passion for culinary innovation.
Tailor Your Menu Experience: Make sure to highlight your experience with menu development and how you've adapted dishes to meet regional tastes. We’re looking for someone who understands the nuances between NI and ROI, so be specific about your relevant experiences!
Demonstrate Your Compliance Knowledge: Since food safety and compliance are key, don’t forget to mention your knowledge of HACCP and allergen legislation. We want to know how you’ve ensured high standards in your previous roles, so give us some examples!
Keep It Professional Yet Personal: While we appreciate a friendly tone, remember to keep your application professional. Use clear language and structure your thoughts well. And hey, apply through our website to make sure your application gets to us directly!
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 different regions will show your creativity and awareness, which is crucial for a Development Chef.
✨Understand Regional Preferences
Familiarise yourself with the specific tastes and dietary preferences in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your ability to adapt menus effectively during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Compliance Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss HACCP, food safety, and allergen management regulations. Highlighting your understanding of the differences between UK and ROI legislation will set you apart as a candidate who is not only creative but also compliant.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since this role involves training and developing culinary teams, think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a team or conducted training sessions. Sharing these stories will illustrate your capability to manage and inspire others.