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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering operation, from menu planning to team management.
- Company: Join 14forty, a vibrant company that values diversity and talent.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and opportunities for culinary growth.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a hands-on role while doing what you love—cooking!
- Qualifications: Experience as a Chef Manager or Head Chef with strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Exciting pathways for career development and recognised qualifications.
Fixed Term Chef Manager
Contract: End of November to end of July - potential to extend further
Location: Pontefract
Salary: Up to £30,000 per annum, depending on experience (pro-rota)
Working Pattern: Flexible between 6am and 4pm, 5 days over 7
We’re looking for a Chef Manager who can do more than cook. This is a role for a hands-on leader who’s 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’ll oversee every aspect of the catering operation, from menu planning and team leadership to client relationships, budgets, compliance, and service delivery. You’ll 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.
- Managing 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.
Hungry for more? 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.
For more information about careers at 14forty and our benefits please visit: Careers at 14forty
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 we 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
Contact Detail:
Compass Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Fixed Term Chef Manager - Pontefract
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture before your interview. Check out their website and social media to see what they're all about. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your cooking skills and be ready to showcase them! If they ask for a demonstration or a tasting, make sure you can whip up something delicious that reflects your passion for fresh food and high-quality service.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare some examples of how you've led a team or managed client relationships in the past. Use specific situations to highlight your leadership skills and financial acumen—this will show them you can handle the operational side of things.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Fixed Term Chef Manager - Pontefract
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your experience as a Chef Manager or Head Chef. We want to see how you've led teams and managed operations, so don’t hold back on those juicy details!
Be Passionate About Food: Let your love for fresh food and high-quality service shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who’s not just about cooking but also about creating delightful experiences for our clients and guests.
Demonstrate Your Leadership Skills: We need a hands-on leader, so share examples of how you’ve motivated and developed your team in the past. Show us how you inspire others with your energy and passion for the culinary arts!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with various menu options and seasonal ingredients. Be ready to discuss your favourite dishes and how you would adapt them for different dietary needs. This shows your passion for food and your ability to cater to diverse client preferences.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team in the past. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you motivated your team to overcome them. This will demonstrate your leadership style and ability to inspire others, which is crucial for a Chef Manager role.
✨Understand Financials Like a Pro
Brush up on your knowledge of P&L statements, cost control, and budgeting. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve managed food costs and maximised margins in previous roles. This will highlight your strong financial acumen and show that you can run the catering operation efficiently.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Ask questions about their expectations and share your ideas on how to enhance client relationships. This not only shows your interest in the role but also your ability to engage with clients and guests effectively.
