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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering operation, from menu planning to team management and client relations.
- Company: Join 14forty, a vibrant part of Compass Group UK&I, committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, culinary pathways, and opportunities for recognised qualifications.
- Why this job: Combine your passion for food with leadership in a role that makes a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Chef Manager or Head Chef with strong operational and financial skills.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive culture where you can thrive and develop your culinary career.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
This job is a Fixed Term Chef Manager position located in Pontefract, with a contract running from the end of November to the end of July, with potential for extension.
Salary: Up to £30,000 per annum, depending on experience (pro-rata).
Working Pattern: Flexible between 6am and 4pm, 5 days over 7.
We are looking for a Chef Manager who can do more than cook. This is a role for a hands-on leader who is as confident at the stove as they are in a client meeting, someone who understands how to run a business, manage a team, and deliver food that delights. As the heartbeat of the site, you will oversee every aspect of the catering operation, from menu planning and team leadership to client relationships, budgets, compliance, and service delivery. You will cook with passion, lead with purpose, and run the outlet like it’s your own.
What You’ll Be Doing:
- Oversee the full catering operation from food to finance to front of house.
- Lead, develop and motivate your team to deliver excellent service every day.
- Manage food costs, margins, waste and labour with commercial precision.
- Build strong relationships with our clients and guests, understanding their needs, exceeding expectations and delivering service with an impact.
- Ensure compliance with food safety, health & safety and company standards at all times.
- Drive consistency and quality across the kitchen and wider catering operation.
What you’ll bring to the table:
- Proven experience as a Chef Manager or Head Chef with strong operational experience.
- A passion for fresh food, seasonal ingredients, and high-quality service delivery.
- Great communication and leadership skills - you inspire others with your energy.
- A strong sense of ownership and ability to manage client relationships.
- Strong financial acumen - you understand P&L, cost control, and business KPIs.
- Excellent communication and people management skills - you build trust, lead by example, and bring out the best in your team.
We also offer exciting culinary pathways for team members who want to level up. With real-time mentoring, hands-on experience, and the chance to earn recognised qualifications, it’s a delicious way to grow your skills while doing what you love.
Compass Group UK&I wants everyone in our business to feel able to be themselves at work and to have an equal opportunity to progress their career. We want to create a culture where respect and embrace everyone’s talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities. Where our colleagues feel valued, can reach their full potential, and thrive - Diversity is Our Strength!
Fixed Term Chef Manager - Pontefract employer: Compass Group UK & Ireland
Contact Detail:
Compass Group UK & Ireland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Fixed Term Chef Manager - Pontefract
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the culinary world, attend local food events, or join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you can, create a portfolio of your best dishes or even host a tasting event. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table and shows your passion for fresh food and high-quality service.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially around team leadership and client relationships. Confidence is key, so practice your pitch!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search and eager to join our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Fixed Term Chef Manager - Pontefract
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When you're writing your application, let your love for fresh food and high-quality service shine through. Share specific examples of how you've used seasonal ingredients or created memorable dishes that delighted customers.
Highlight Your Leadership Skills: We want to see how you inspire and motivate your team! Include stories about how you've developed your staff or led a successful catering operation. This will show us you're not just a great cook, but also a fantastic leader.
Demonstrate Financial Savvy: Since managing budgets and costs is key in this role, make sure to mention your experience with P&L, cost control, and any relevant KPIs. We love candidates who understand the business side of catering as much as the culinary side!
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 get you into the process. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team at 14forty!
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group UK & Ireland
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with various menu options and seasonal ingredients. Be ready to discuss how you would plan menus that cater to different dietary needs while keeping costs in check.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team in the past. Highlight your ability to motivate staff and manage client relationships, as this role requires strong communication and people management skills.
✨Understand Financials Like a Pro
Brush up on your knowledge of P&L statements, cost control, and business KPIs. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve managed budgets and maximised profits in previous roles, as financial acumen is key for this position.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Food
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for fresh food and high-quality service shine through. Share stories about your culinary journey and how you ensure consistency and quality in your kitchen operations.
