At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead culinary teams, develop menus, and ensure high-quality food service.
- Company: Join Aramark UK, a leader in the food service industry at a university site.
- Benefits: Up to £45k salary, generous leave, discounts, and health plans.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a close-knit team while developing your culinary career.
- Qualifications: Experience in a similar role with strong communication and food safety knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 45000 £ per year.
Aramark UK is looking for an Executive Head Chef to join the team at one of our university sites based in Winchester. The individual will have a deep understanding of the culinary world and strong operational skills. Reporting to the Account Director, your primary responsibility will be to work closely with multiple key stakeholders to deliver high quality food consistently and in accordance with the service level agreement. The role requires leadership and direction to be given to the culinary teams to increase quality and efficiency. The role will be predominantly Mon-Fri, with occasional evening and weekend work to accommodate functions. This is a fantastic opportunity: not only will you be joining a very close-knit team but there is excellent scope to develop your career!
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all employees and workers to share this commitment. All roles are subject to safer recruitment checks, including references and an enhanced DBS check, in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE).
Salary – Up to £45k. Generous annual leave that increases in line with service, with the opportunity to buy extra. Life assurance and pension scheme. Benefits app: access to 100s of discounts, free mortgage advice, cycle to work scheme, health cash plans, online GP appointments, and our Employee Assistance Programme.
FOOD! Opportunities to attend in-house events and try the culinary genius of our teams (we are a food business after all!).
Key Responsibilities- Lead the culinary offer through menu development and food concepts, based on market trends.
- Planning, training and execution of new food and beverage offers from conception to delivery.
- Producing training and operational materials / aids for new and existing colleagues.
- Auditing to ensure standards / portion controls are followed.
- Understanding food costs and associated effects - driving labour and margin savings.
- Provide leadership and advice to the onsite culinary leads in all capacities.
- Feeding back to senior stakeholders, when required.
- Driving company food safety / health and safety standards.
- Line management of existing colleagues.
- Providing support to regional team, as and when required.
- Recent / current experience within a similar role, either within the higher education sector or business & industry.
- Good commercial acumen.
- Effective communication and people management skills.
- A strong understanding of food safety and back-of-house management.
If you are applying for this role and you already work for Aramark, you must notify your line manager before submitting your application. At Aramark UK, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued and empowered to thrive. As a proud Disability Confident and Forces Friendly employer, we actively encourage applications from individuals of all abilities and are dedicated to supporting employees with disabilities throughout their career journey. We ensure our recruitment process is accessible, and reasonable adjustments are available at every stage, from application to interview and employment. If you require any accommodations or have any questions, please reach out to our recruitment team – careers@aramark.co.uk. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.
Executive Head Chef in Winchester employer: Aramark UK
Aramark UK is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture at our university site in Winchester, where culinary creativity thrives. With a strong commitment to employee development, generous benefits including increased annual leave and access to discounts, and a supportive environment that values diversity and inclusion, we empower our team members to excel in their careers while enjoying the rewards of working in a dynamic food service industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Head Chef in Winchester
✨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 Aramark UK. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Aramark UK
Don't be shy about reaching out to Aramark UK 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 Executive Head Chef in Winchester
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 Aramark UK 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 Aramark UK
✨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!
