At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and cook high-quality dishes for an iconic opera venue.
- Company: Join Compass Group UK & Ireland at Glyndebourne Opera House.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, free shuttle bus, and onsite parking.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for growth in a vibrant cultural setting.
- Why this job: Work with award-winning chefs and create exceptional dining experiences.
- Qualifications: Previous experience in a professional kitchen is essential.
This job is with Compass Group UK & Ireland, an inclusive employer. We are recruiting Chef de Parties to join our kitchen team for the Summer Opera Festival, running from May to August 2026. Potential to take on additional hours in October.
As a chef at Glyndebourne, you will work closely with our Area Chef Steve Groves and Executive Head Chef Lee Redman, along with their senior team, to create an exceptional dining experience worthy of this iconic venue.
This is a casual position, with hours varying week to week based on business needs. During the Festival we operate seven days a week, so flexibility is essential, including weekend work. The role includes:
- Preparing and cooking high-quality dishes
- Supporting menu delivery across multiple outlets
- Maintaining excellent standards of hygiene and food safety
- Working closely with the wider kitchen and front-of-house teams to ensure a seamless guest experience
Duties will be matched to your skills, experience, and level of expertise. We are looking for passionate, hardworking individuals with energy, creativity, and a positive, can-do attitude. You will be able to work calmly under pressure, collaborate effectively in a team, and take pride in delivering exceptional culinary experiences. Previous experience in a professional kitchen is essential.
What We Offer:
- Competitive pay depending on grade and experience
- Weekly paid tronc
- Free shuttle bus from Lewes Station
- Free onsite parking
- The opportunity to work in Chef Steve Groves' restaurant and across Glyndebourne's kitchens
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.
Chef of all Grades (May - August) employer: Compass Group PLC
Compass Group PLC is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Leeds where you can lead a passionate team and make a real impact on customer experiences. With a strong focus on employee development, competitive benefits including a pension scheme, and a culture that values high service standards, this role provides a unique opportunity to grow your career in the food service industry while driving profitability and creating memorable moments for guests.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef of all Grades (May - August)
✨Get in Early: Embrace the Seasonal Rush
In hospitality, seasonal hiring can be a bit of a frenzy, so make sure you’re applying early. Keep an eye on when local businesses like cafés and restaurants ramp up for holiday seasons or summer rushes. We can help you stay ahead by tracking application windows—don’t miss out!
✨Join Local Hospitality Groups
Tap into local hospitality communities online or through social media. Groups on Facebook or platforms like MeetUp can be goldmines for seasonal job opportunities. Engage with these communities—join discussions, share your eagerness, and you could snag a gig before it’s even advertised!
✨Show Your Face: Walk-Ins Matter
In hospitality, nothing beats a good ol' walk-in. Visit local establishments and introduce yourself. Bring along a flashy CV and maybe even drop a line about why you’re keen to work there. Sometimes just chatting with the manager can score you an interview on the spot!
✨Use Seasonal Hiring Platforms
Look for platforms that specialise in seasonal positions in the hospitality sector. Websites dedicated to summer jobs or Festival employment can offer unique roles that align with your interests. Don't forget to apply through our website too—companies like Compass Group PLC are constantly looking for enthusiastic seasonal workers like you!
We think you need these skills to ace Chef of all Grades (May - August)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality and food service game, your customer service skills are your bread and butter. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience you have in restaurants, cafés, or similar environments, emphasizing your ability to handle busy situations and provide excellent service.
Seasonal Availability is Key:Since this is a seasonal role, we're looking for candidates who are flexible with their availability. In your cover letter, mention specific times you’re available during the season and any previous seasonal positions you’ve held. This helps us see you as a perfect fit for this temporary gig!
Culinary Knowledge Can Set You Apart:If you have any culinary certifications or training, be sure to feature them prominently in your application. Knowing your way around a kitchen or having food safety certifications could give you an edge over other candidates when applying for a role at Compass Group PLC.
Make It Personal:When applying through our website, use your cover letter to share why you’re passionate about working with Compass Group PLC. Draw on any personal experiences you have in the hospitality scene and how they inspired you to apply for this seasonal role. We love a personal touch!
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group PLC
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
With a seasonal role in hospitality-food-service, it’s super important to familiarise yourself with the menu. Be ready to chat about your favourite dishes, special ingredients, and any dietary considerations people might have. This shows you're passionate and prepared to provide excellent service right from the start!
✨Brush Up on Your Customer Service Skills
In hospitality, customer service can make or break the experience. Think of scenarios where you've gone the extra mile for a guest, or how you've handled challenges with a smile. Prepare a few stories that highlight your ability to connect with customers, solve problems, and create a welcoming atmosphere.
✨Flexibility is Key
Seasonal roles often require us to be flexible with our hours and responsibilities. During the interview, be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt. Highlighting your ability to jump into different roles, whether it’s serving or kitchen support, can really set you apart.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, especially in busy seasons. Prepare to share experiences where you collaborated with colleagues to create a seamless experience for guests. If you've got any examples where you helped to lift team morale during busy shifts, mention them! It’s all about showing that you can contribute positively to the work environment.
