At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team, create innovative menus, and ensure top-notch food quality.
- Company: Join Levy UK & Ireland, a leader in hospitality with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, healthcare, 23 days' leave, and meals on duty.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team dedicated to creating unforgettable dining experiences.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a vibrant environment while developing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Proven culinary experience and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Lead Chef - Hydro Hospitality | SEC | Full-Time / Permanent
£34,000 + excellent benefits including healthcare, wellbeing support, 23 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, life assurance, meals on duty, and more.
We're looking for...
The overall purpose of a Lead Chef is to serve as a key leader in the kitchen, supporting the Head Chef in maintaining exceptional culinary standards and operational efficiency.
They oversee the preparation and presentation of food to ensure consistency and quality, contribute to menu development and innovation, and manage kitchen staff by providing training and mentorship.
With a focus on operational excellence, cost control, and compliance with health and safety standards, the Lead plays a pivotal role in creating a positive dining experience while contributing to the overall success and profitability of the establishment.
This role focuses on our hospitality and restaurant operations across The Ovo Hydro and at times, SEC Campus.
We are Levy
We are a visionary venue partner. We design and deliver bespoke guest experiences that prioritise people and the planet.
Trusted by some of the world's most iconic stadiums, entertainment venues, and major events from Wimbledon and Twickenham to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Edgbaston, the SEC and Ex Ce L London we bring experiences to life with passion and precision.
Our mission is to succeed the right way.
From pioneering tech and seamless operations to show-stopping menus and exceptional service, we use insight and innovation to understand guests, improve the customer journey, reduce environmental impact, and support local communities.
We are a passionate, diverse team of venue specialists dedicated to making the planet better for future generations.
Lead Chef - Hydro Hospitality - The Role
KEY RESPONSIBILTIES
- Assist in Menu Planning and Development: Collaborate with the head chef to design and develop balanced, nutritious menus that cater to the dietary needs of our client.
- Oversee Food Preparation and
Cooking: Supervise and participate in the preparation and cooking of meals, ensuring they meet the highest standards of quality, taste, and presentation while adhering to food safety and hygiene regulations.
- Team Supervision and
Development: Lead and mentor the kitchen team, including chefs and kitchen assistants, to maintain a cohesive, efficient, and productive work environment.
Provide Management, training and support to staff on nutrition and culinary techniques relevant to our client diets.
- Quality Control: Maintain consistency in food quality and presentation, implementing quality control measures and continuously seeking ways to improve the culinary offerings.
- Inventory and
- Stock
Management: Assist in managing the ordering, storage, and inventory of kitchen supplies and ingredients, ensuring efficient stock control and minimising waste.
- Cost Management: Help manage the kitchen budget, control food costs, and source ingredients economically without compromising on quality or nutritional value.
- Health and
- Safety
Compliance: Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations, food hygiene standards, and dietary requirements.
Conduct regular inspections and audits to maintain high standards of cleanliness and safety in the kitchen.
- Support
- Event
Catering: Assist in planning and executing catering for club events, meetings, and functions, ensuring the provision of high-quality food and service that meets the expectations of all stakeholders.
- Collaborate with
Nutritionists: Work closely with nutritionists and sports science professionals to develop and adjust meal plans that align with the nutritional needs and performance goals of the athletes.
- Foster a
- Positive
- Dining
Experience: Contribute to creating a positive dining experience for players and staff, soliciting feedback to continuously improve the food offerings and ensure satisfaction.
- Assist in Culinary Innovation: Stay updated with culinary trends and innovations, incorporating new techniques and ingredients into the menu to keep offerings fresh and exciting.
- Operational Efficiency: Ensure efficient kitchen operations with minimal downtime or delays, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the culinary team.
- Performance and
- Wellness
Support: Support the overall wellness and performance goals of Rangers Football Club by providing meals that enhance the health, fitness, and performance of players and staff.
What we're looking for
PERSON SPECFICATION
- Extensive
- Culinary
Experience: Proven experience in a senior culinary role, such as Sous Chef, preferably within a stadia, area, large hotels or high-performance environment, demonstrating expertise in menu planning, food preparation, and kitchen management.
- Leadership and Management Skills: Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and manage a kitchen team, fostering a positive and productive working environment.
- Food Safety and
Hygiene: In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations, hygiene standards, and compliance requirements, with a proven track record of maintaining high standards in these areas.
- Creativity and
Innovation: Ability to contribute to the creation of innovative and varied menus that cater to different tastes and dietary requirements while maintaining nutritional balance.
- Budgeting and Cost Control: Experience in managing food costs, assisting with budget planning, and sourcing ingredients effectively without compromising on quality.
- Excellent Communication Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate effectively with the head chef, nutritionists, and other club staff.
- Flexibility and Adaptability: Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to meet the needs of the campus and its schedules.
- What you'll get in return
- Competitive salary with bonus and full company benefits
- 23 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, your birthday off, and a holiday purchase scheme
- Healthcare & wellbeing: Aviva Digicare, Medicash (dental, optical, therapy treatments)
- Mental health support: 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
- Family benefits: Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave. 2 days additional leave after returning from maternity leave, day off for your baby's first birthday, enhanced family leave
- Perks & discounts: Shopping, entertainment, and travel discounts, 20% off Nuffield Health and 10% off Pure Gym memberships
- Financial wellbeing: Pension scheme, Life Assurance, preferred rates on salary finance products
- Development opportunities: Professional subscriptions, ongoing training and structured career pathways
- Meals on duty included
Why Join Us?
Levy UK & Ireland is part of Compass Group, the world's largest catering company, and a vibrant leader in hospitality.
We believe in celebrating individuality and building inclusive teams where everyone feels they belong. Our diverse team fuels creativity, innovation, and excellence.
We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join us in creating a supportive, empowering workplace where everyone can thrive.
Together, we create unforgettable experiences and shape the future of hospitality.
- Medicash - Healthcare benefits, including dental, optical and therapy treatments (includes up to 4 dependent children)
- Aviva Digicare - Free annual healthcare check
- Exclusive Benefits & Wellbeing site (Perks at Work)
- Entertainment discounts - up to 55% off cinema tickets
- Health & Wellbeing discounts - Discounts for Nuffield Health (20%) and Pure Gym (10%)
- Travel discounts - Discounts with holiday companies such as TUI and Expedia
- Shopping discounts - Save up to 15% at high street and online stores by purchasing Shopping Cards
- Meals on duty
- Vodaphone discounts
- Pension scheme and Life Assurance
- Employee Assistance Programme
- 23 days + BH's and additional day off for your birthday
- 2 days additional leave, following return from Maternity leave during first year back
- Competitive and supportive family benefits
- Day off for baby's first birthday
- Holiday purchase scheme
- On-going training & development and career pathways
- Professional subscriptions paid
- Financial wellbeing programme and preferred rates on salary finance products
As part of Compass you'll help to feed people, fuel progress and forge connections in around 6,000 venues.
Join us to grow your career with the industry leader, and get competitive pay, great perks and unrivalled opportunities for learning and development, at one of the UK's biggest businesses.
Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers.
We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members.
We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Lead Chef - Hydro Hospitality | SEC NEW Levy Posted today £34,000 per year Livingston 40 hours per week employer: Chartwells Independent
Join Constellation at Molineux Stadium, where we pride ourselves on creating a vibrant and supportive work environment for our Kitchen Porters. With flexible matchday roles, you'll have the chance to be part of thrilling events while enjoying opportunities for personal growth and development within the Levy UK family. Our commitment to high standards and teamwork ensures that every employee feels valued and integral to our success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Chef - Hydro Hospitality | SEC NEW Levy Posted today £34,000 per year Livingston 40 hours per week
✨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 Chartwells Independent. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Chartwells Independent
Don't be shy about reaching out to Chartwells Independent 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 Lead Chef - Hydro Hospitality | SEC NEW Levy Posted today £34,000 per year Livingston 40 hours per week
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 Chartwells Independent 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 Chartwells Independent
✨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!