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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 in Southampton employer: Alchemy Hospitality
Contact Detail:
Alchemy Hospitality Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Kitchen Chef in Southampton
✨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 sharing your passion for food innovation. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Development Chef role!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you get the chance, organise a cooking demo or a tasting session. This is your moment to shine and showcase your creativity and culinary expertise. Plus, it gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on food trends! Keep an eye on what's hot in the culinary world and be ready to discuss how you can incorporate these trends into menus. This shows you're not just a chef, but a forward-thinking innovator who can drive culinary excellence.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for talented chefs like you. By applying directly, you’ll stand out and show us you’re serious about joining the team. Let’s get you that Development Chef position!
We think you need these skills to ace Development Kitchen Chef in Southampton
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. Show us that you’re not just creative but also aware of the important standards we uphold in the industry.
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 ensures you’re considered for this exciting role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
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 before your interview. Being able to discuss current culinary movements and how they can be adapted for the client’s needs will show your passion and creativity.
✨Understand Regional Differences
Since the role involves working across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, it’s crucial to understand the regional tastes and regulatory differences. Be prepared to discuss how you would adapt menus to cater to these variations.
✨Showcase Your Training Skills
Highlight your experience in training and developing culinary teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully conducted cooking demonstrations or training sessions in the past, as this is a key part of the role.
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
Expect to face questions about troubleshooting operational challenges related to food quality and cost control. Think of specific instances where you’ve resolved such issues and be ready to share those stories.