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- Tasks: Join us as a Development Chef, ensuring top-notch food quality in schools across London.
- Company: Caterlink is a leading catering specialist for the education sector, serving over 1 million meals weekly.
- Benefits: Enjoy a Monday to Friday schedule, training opportunities, and employee discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' dining experiences while working in a supportive, inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: We seek an experienced chef with management skills and a passion for food; driving license required.
- Other info: This role requires safeguarding children; an enhanced DBS disclosure will be obtained.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Company Description
Caterlink is the education sector catering specialist. For over 20 years, the Company has delivered fresh food solutions to pupils and staff at Primary Schools, Secondary Schools, and Colleges across the UK. The company caters for more than 1,000,000 meals a week. Our “Fresh Food Policy” is the foundation of our success and growth in the market, coupled with a desire to truly deliver on the promises we make to our clients and support our site-based teams.
Job Description
We have an exciting opportunity for a Development Chef to join us to support our Primary & Secondary Schools within our large London Borough areas. This pivotal role involves maintaining food standards and service delivery across all schools, with the aim to exceed our customers’ expectations. The role focuses on food quality, working with our Area Managers, participating in training kitchens, and coaching site kitchen teams. It is a hands-on, customer-focused role involving working closely with teams and managers to develop the food offer, manage purchasing and food costs, and deliver added value to schools through tasting sessions, open evenings, and school events. The role supports Operations Managers in fulfilling contractual requirements in each Borough.
We seek an experienced Chef with management and multi-site experience, knowledge of the education sector, and excellent cooking skills. The ideal candidate will be passionate about food, driven, well-presented, and skilled in planning and time management. A full UK driving license and access to a car are required, and the candidate must be able to cook.
Caterlink is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. An enhanced DBS disclosure will be obtained for this role. We promote a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment where every individual is treated with respect, integrity, and fairness, with opportunities for growth.
Additional Information
- Monday to Friday role
- Term time plus 2 weeks
- Opportunities for formal qualifications, apprenticeships, classroom training, eLearning, and on-the-job training
- Induction and ongoing development support
- Access to Employee Discount Platform
- Employee Assistance Program and Virtual GP
- Potential pension scheme eligibility
Caterlink - Development Chef - London employer: BaxterStorey
Contact Detail:
BaxterStorey Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Caterlink - Development Chef - London
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Caterlink's 'Fresh Food Policy' and their commitment to quality. Understanding their core values will help you align your experience and passion for food with their mission during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the education catering sector. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with people who might provide insights or even referrals for the Development Chef position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your multi-site management experience in detail. Think of specific examples where you've successfully improved food quality or service delivery, as this will demonstrate your capability to excel in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for working with children and in educational settings. Be ready to share any relevant experiences that highlight your ability to engage with students and staff, as this is crucial for a role focused on schools.
We think you need these skills to ace Caterlink - Development Chef - London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the Development Chef position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in food quality, management, and working within the education sector.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your culinary skills, management experience, and any relevant qualifications. Use bullet points for clarity and focus on achievements that demonstrate your ability to exceed customer expectations.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for food and your commitment to delivering high-quality service. Mention specific experiences that relate to the role, such as managing multi-site operations or working with school catering teams.
Highlight Your Qualifications: If you have any formal qualifications or certifications related to culinary arts or food safety, make sure to mention them in your application. This will strengthen your candidacy and show your dedication to professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at BaxterStorey
✨Show Your Passion for Food
As a Development Chef, your love for food is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your culinary journey, favourite dishes, and how you stay updated with food trends. This will demonstrate your genuine enthusiasm for the role.
✨Highlight Your Experience in Education Catering
Caterlink focuses on the education sector, so it's important to showcase any relevant experience you have. Talk about your previous roles in similar environments and how you've contributed to maintaining food standards and service delivery.
✨Demonstrate Your Teamwork Skills
This role involves working closely with various teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in past positions, particularly in training or coaching kitchen staff, to illustrate your ability to work well in a team.
✨Prepare for Practical Cooking Demonstrations
Since cooking skills are essential for this position, be ready for a practical assessment. Brush up on your cooking techniques and be prepared to showcase your ability to create high-quality meals under pressure.
