At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a mobile catering team to deliver high-quality food across schools.
- Company: HCL, a leading contract caterer focused on nutritious school meals.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a focus on excellence and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives through quality food experiences.
- Qualifications: Experienced Chef or Kitchen Manager with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 27540 - 33660 £ per year.
Location: Field-based across South Stevenage Welwyn Hatfield
Hours: 35 hours - Term Time, including Inset days + 1 week, 40 working weeks per year
Reports to: Senior Operations Manager
HCL are leading contract caterers with a focus on school feeding. We have a commitment to deliver high-quality, nutritious, and engaging food experiences for children and staff across our primary schools, secondary schools, and commercial sites. We pride ourselves on our dynamic culture and our commitment to excellence.
The Group Chef plays a critical role in ensuring kitchens remain fully staffed, operational, and deliver high-quality food and service safely across multiple education sites. This position supports the Senior Operations Manager by managing the mobile workforce, supporting compliance with food safety and operational standards, and assisting with kitchen mobilisations and community engagement activities.
Key Responsibilities for Group Chef
- Workforce Planning & Deployment: Manage and deploy a mobile catering team to ensure kitchens remain fully staffed. Plan rotas, coordinate cover, and work with senior managers to anticipate staffing needs.
- People Management: Lead, support, and develop a mobile workforce, including line management responsibilities. Oversee training, performance, and absence management, ensuring HR compliance.
- Operational Support: Provide hands-on kitchen support when needed, maintain food quality standards, and monitor performance (food cost, labour, waste). Support site engagement activities and digital systems.
- Compliance & Safety: Ensure high standards in Food Safety, Health & Safety, and allergen management across all sites.
- Recruitment & Retention: Recruit and retain mobile team members, supporting wider site recruitment and engagement initiatives. Assist with new site set-ups and transitions, including equipment, onboarding, and systems implementation.
About You as a Group Chef
- Experienced Chef or Kitchen Manager (multi-site/mobile preferred)
- Strong leadership and team management skills
- Solid knowledge of food safety, H&S, and allergens
- Organised, adaptable, and able to work across multiple locations
- Passionate about food quality and customer service
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel
Group Chef South Stevenage Welwyn Hatfield employer: Allscreens Nationwide Ltd
Allscreens Nationwide is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive team culture where employees are valued and encouraged to thrive. With access to state-of-the-art training facilities and opportunities for career progression, our Automotive Glazing Technicians in Birmingham can expect not only competitive bonuses but also the chance to work with the latest technology in the industry. Join us and be part of a company that prioritises both employee well-being and customer satisfaction.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Chef South Stevenage Welwyn Hatfield
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Allscreens Nationwide Ltd. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Allscreens Nationwide Ltd
Don't be shy about reaching out to Allscreens Nationwide Ltd directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Group Chef South Stevenage Welwyn Hatfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Allscreens Nationwide Ltd and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Allscreens Nationwide Ltd
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
