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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team to create delicious, sustainable meals for up to 2000 customers daily.
- Company: Join Eurest, a leader in workplace catering, committed to sustainability and quality food experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy a Monday to Friday schedule, meal on duty, health perks, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative culinary team focused on innovation, sustainability, and work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Experience in contract catering, strong leadership skills, and a passion for hospitality are essential.
- Other info: Eurest values diversity and offers a supportive environment for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 35000 £ per year.
We are looking for a talented, enthusiastic Head Chef for our dedicated catering team in Leeds, producing outstanding food using the finest and freshest ingredients in this prestigious contract.
At Eurest, we are the experts in workplace catering, operating in over 700 workspaces every day. We know that fuelling employees throughout the day can help to sharpen their thinking, nourish their bodies and minds and ultimately, motivate them to perform at their best. Our workplace food experiences are driven by our promise to live more sustainably and responsibly, working towards our goal of net zero by 2030.
If you are an innovative and creative Chef, passionate about using top quality fresh ingredients, and looking for a role which can offer both work life balance and career development - we want to hear from you!
About the role
- Services: Breakfast, Lunch, Vending Retail Coffee Shop and Hospitality
- In a team of 12 with 2 direct reports and up to 2000 customers on site
- Plan, organise, innovate and direct the preparation and cooking of food to ensure the company's reputation for quality is enhanced with customers and clients at all times.
- Drive ours and our clients sustainability mission to be net zero by 2030.
- Create a positive kitchen environment where your team feel welcomed, supported and developed.
- Focus on service execution and delivery excellence at all times.
- Drive sales through menu planning and promotions.
- Responsible for implementing and maintaining high levels of cleanliness, food safety, HS and COSHH within the kitchen.
- Maintain food monitoring procedures to facilitate budgetary control and monitor all costs involved in the kitchen against agreed budgets.
- Maintain the centre of excellence in food and customer service.
About You
- Previous experience in a similar role in contract catering with hospitality and events
- Ability to successfully motivate and manage a team to deliver consistent standards
- Excellent and innovative culinary and presentation skills
- Passionate about all things hospitality with excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Leads and inspires a team with a progressive mindset in developing people
- A clear understanding of profit margins, purchasing policy, budgeting and food costing.
- Stock and Waste control experience
- Understanding of food management systems HACCP, Food Safety, Health and Safety, Natasha's Law, Allergens and Manual Handling.
About us
We ensure you’re rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:
- Meal provided while on duty
- Financial wellbeing programme and preferred rates on salary finance products
- Aviva Digi care - Free annual healthcare check
- Medicash - Discounted health cash plan providing cash back on a range of medical treatments including Dental, Optical and Consultant appointments for you and your family.
- Pension scheme and Life Assurance
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Recognition awards including Be a Star peer recognition and Long Service Awards
- Exclusive Benefits & Wellbeing site (Perks at Work)
- Shopping discounts - Save up to 15% at high street and online stores by purchasing Shopping Cards
- On-going training & development and career pathways
We’re people-powered at Eurest. It’s an understatement to say that we’re passionate about what we do, which is why we’re committed to attracting the best and brightest people to join us - could that be you?
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!
Head Chef - Leeds employer: Compass Group UK & Ireland
Contact Detail:
Compass Group UK & Ireland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Eurest's sustainability mission. As a Head Chef, you'll be expected to drive this initiative, so understanding their goals and how you can contribute will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've motivated and developed your team in previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Research current food trends and be ready to discuss innovative menu ideas that align with Eurest's focus on fresh ingredients and customer satisfaction. This demonstrates your passion and creativity.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to talk about your experience with food safety regulations and management systems like HACCP. Being knowledgeable in these areas will show that you take food safety seriously, which is essential for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef - Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in contract catering and hospitality. Emphasise your culinary skills, team management experience, and any achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive quality and sustainability.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for food and hospitality. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed a kitchen or led a team, and express your enthusiasm for Eurest's commitment to sustainability and quality.
Showcase Your Culinary Creativity: If possible, include a portfolio or examples of your culinary creations. This could be photos of dishes you've prepared or menus you've designed, demonstrating your innovative approach to cooking and presentation.
Highlight Relevant Certifications: Include any certifications related to food safety, health and safety, or culinary arts. This will show your understanding of industry standards and your commitment to maintaining high levels of cleanliness and safety in the kitchen.
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group UK & Ireland
✨Showcase Your Culinary Creativity
As a Head Chef, your ability to innovate is crucial. Prepare to discuss your previous culinary creations and how you can bring fresh ideas to the menu at Eurest. Highlight any unique dishes you've developed that align with their sustainability mission.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Eurest values strong leadership in their kitchen. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully motivated and managed a team in the past. Discuss your approach to creating a positive kitchen environment and how you support your team's development.
✨Understand Food Safety Regulations
Familiarise yourself with food management systems and safety regulations such as HACCP and Natasha's Law. During the interview, be prepared to explain how you ensure compliance with these standards in your kitchen operations.
✨Discuss Budget Management Experience
Since the role involves budgetary control and cost monitoring, come prepared to talk about your experience with profit margins, purchasing policies, and waste control. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully managed kitchen budgets in the past.
