At a Glance
- Tasks: Create exceptional culinary experiences and lead a dynamic kitchen team.
- Company: Join Chartwells, a leader in catering for the education sector.
- Benefits: Part-time hours, career progression, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and thrive in a culture that celebrates individuality.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives through delicious, nutritious meals.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef and relevant culinary qualifications required.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 € per year.
We're currently recruiting an ambitious Head Chef to help us create exceptional food experiences for Chartwells on a part time basis, contracted to 32.5 hours per week. As a Head Chef, you will be responsible for creating an outstanding culinary experience. In return, you will have the chance to progress your career with a company that invests in its people, celebrates individuality, and rewards and recognises employees who go beyond the plate.
Here's an idea of what your shift pattern will be:
- Mon: Full-time (Days)
- Tues: Full-time (Days)
- Weds: Full-time (Days)
- Thurs: Full-time (Days)
- Fri: Full-time (Days)
- Sat:
- Sun:
Please note: This role is contracted to 43.8 weeks per year.
Your key responsibilities will include:
- Preparing delicious, high-quality food that delights our clients and customers
- Identifying opportunities to improve our food service
- Creating a positive kitchen environment where your team feel welcomed and supported
- Delivering our tasty food concepts to our customers
- Representing Compass Group UK&I and maintaining a positive brand image
- Ordering food, looking after stock control and controlling food waste
- Overseeing kitchen cleaning responsibilities to maintain hygiene standards
- Managing budgets and successfully meeting financial targets
- Complying with Food Handling & Hygiene standards
- Complying with Health & Safety regulations
Our ideal Head Chef will:
- Hold a City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or NVQ equivalent
- Create a positive work environment where the whole team can thrive
- Be a brilliant communicator and easily build relationships
- Have experience in a similar Head Chef role
- Strive for excellence in an enthusiastic and motivated manner
- Take initiative and make decisions that are right for our customers
- Have a desire to succeed in your role
- Possess the ability to work under pressure
- Demonstrate exceptional timekeeping and reliability
- Have a safety-first mind set
- Be passionate about food
Part of Compass Group UK&I, Chartwells is the leading provider of catering and support services to the education sector. For over a quarter of a century, Chartwells has been focusing on helping those in education to build strong bodies, sharp minds and lead long healthy lives. Every week, Chartwells serves millions of nutritious and delicious meals to pupils and students in primary and secondary schools, academies, independent schools, colleges, and universities across the UK. Chartwells is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all employees to share this commitment. Any offer of employment will be subject to successfully completing pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS disclosure and a Children's Barred List check. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and we ask applicants to declare all previous convictions and cautions in order to assess their suitability to work with children.
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!
School Unit Manager/Cook employer: Chartwells
Chartwells, part of Compass Group UK&I, is an exceptional employer dedicated to creating outstanding culinary experiences in the education sector. With a strong commitment to employee growth and a vibrant work culture that celebrates individuality, we offer our Head Chefs the opportunity to thrive in a supportive environment while making a meaningful impact on the lives of students. Join us to enjoy a fulfilling career where your passion for food can shine and be recognised.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Unit Manager/Cook
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Chartwells and Compass Group UK&I. Understand their values and what they stand for. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your experience as a Head Chef aligns with their expectations, especially around creating a positive kitchen environment and delivering exceptional food experiences.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for food! During the interview, share your culinary journey and any unique dishes you've created. Let them see your enthusiasm for cooking and how you can bring that spark to Chartwells.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to reinforce your interest in the role and keep you fresh in their minds.
We think you need these skills to ace School Unit Manager/Cook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:When you're writing your application, let your love for food shine through! Share your culinary experiences and what excites you about creating delicious meals. We want to see that spark!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Head Chef role. We’re looking for someone who can create a positive kitchen environment, so don’t forget to mention your teamwork and leadership skills!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chartwells
✨Know Your Culinary Skills
Brush up on your culinary techniques and be ready to discuss your experience in creating high-quality dishes. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've delighted customers with your food.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Head Chef, you'll need to create a positive kitchen environment. Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to lead a team effectively and support your colleagues. Share stories that highlight your communication skills and team-building efforts.
✨Understand Food Safety Regulations
Familiarise yourself with food handling and hygiene standards, as well as health and safety regulations. Be ready to discuss how you ensure compliance in the kitchen and how you manage stock control and waste reduction.
✨Express Your Passion for Food
Let your enthusiasm for food shine through during the interview. Talk about what inspires you in the kitchen and how you stay motivated to create exceptional culinary experiences. This passion can set you apart from other candidates!