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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team, creating delicious menus and ensuring top-notch food quality.
- Company: Join Dine Contract Catering, a leader in tailored food services with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a Monday to Friday schedule, competitive salary, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team aiming for Climate Zero by 2030 while showcasing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Previous experience in a similar role and strong leadership skills are essential.
- Other info: We celebrate diversity and empower our team members to thrive in their careers.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 42000 £ per year.
Fixed Term contract for 6 months. Up to £35,000 per annum (pro-rota) depending on experience. Monday to Friday role!
We are looking for a talented, enthusiastic Head Chef for our dedicated Dine Contract Catering team producing outstanding food using the finest and freshest ingredients in this prestigious contract. Personality behind every plate Dine provides tailored food services to 140 clients in the business and industry sector. With over two decades of industry experience, we pride ourselves on offering a personalised approach to our clients, whilst delivering outstanding service. Our passion lies in creating great-tasting menus, promoting sustainability, and proudly working with local suppliers and communities. That's why our menus feature only locally sourced, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients with a target of reaching Climate Zero by 2030.
About the role
- Services include breakfast, lunch, hospitality and coffee shop.
- 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 ideally within a contract catering environment.
- 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.
Our secret ingredient - our people! If you've got what it takes to join some of the food service industry's best and brightest, we want to hear from you.
For more information about careers at Dine Contract Catering and our benefits please visit: Careers at Dine Contract Catering.
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!
Fixed Term Head Chef - Reading employer: Dine Contract Catering
Contact Detail:
Dine Contract Catering Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Fixed Term Head Chef - Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Showcase your passion for sustainability in your conversations. Since the role focuses on promoting sustainable practices, discussing your previous experiences with local suppliers or eco-friendly initiatives can set you apart.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've motivated teams in the past. This role requires managing a team effectively, so having specific examples ready will demonstrate your capability.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in contract catering. Being able to discuss innovative menu ideas or recent culinary trends can show that you're proactive and forward-thinking.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of Dine Contract Catering if possible. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Fixed Term Head Chef - Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in contract catering and showcases your culinary skills. Emphasise any previous roles where you managed a team or contributed to sustainability initiatives.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality and your understanding of the company's mission. Mention specific examples of how you've driven sales through innovative menu planning or improved kitchen operations.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've successfully motivated and managed a team. Highlight any experiences where you created a positive kitchen environment or developed team members' skills.
Demonstrate Knowledge of Food Safety: Include details about your understanding of food management systems, such as HACCP and food safety regulations. This will show that you are well-versed in maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety in the kitchen.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dine Contract Catering
✨Showcase Your Culinary Passion
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for cooking and food presentation. Share specific examples of dishes you've created or innovative menu ideas that align with the company's focus on sustainability and local sourcing.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Highlight your experience in managing a kitchen team. Discuss how you've motivated staff in the past and created a positive work environment, as this role requires strong leadership to drive service excellence.
✨Understand the Business Side
Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of budgeting, food costing, and profit margins. This shows that you not only care about the culinary aspect but also understand the financial implications of running a kitchen.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Food Safety Standards
Make sure you can talk confidently about food safety regulations, including HACCP and Natasha's Law. This is crucial for maintaining high standards in the kitchen and ensuring compliance with health and safety guidelines.
