At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering operation, from menu planning to team management.
- Company: Dine Contract Catering, passionate about fresh food and sustainability.
- Benefits: Up to £34,000 salary, weekdays only, and exciting culinary pathways.
- Why this job: Make an impact with your culinary skills while leading a motivated team.
- Qualifications: Proven Chef Manager experience and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to personal growth and sustainability.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 34000 £ per year.
Location: Stevenage
Salary: Up to £34,000 per annum, depending on experience
Working Pattern: 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 7am to 3pm
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. This site provides a breakfast, lunch and vending for our client. 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 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.
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.
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!
Chef Manager - Stevenage employer: Dine Contract Catering
Contact Detail:
Dine Contract Catering Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef Manager - Stevenage
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Dine Contract Catering. Check out their website and social media to understand their values and what they stand for. 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! As a Chef Manager, you'll need to impress not just with your leadership but also with your culinary expertise. Try recreating some of their menu items or seasonal dishes to showcase your passion for fresh food during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your people skills! Be ready to discuss how you've led teams in the past and built strong client relationships. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to inspire others and manage effectively—this is key for a role like this!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to reinforce your interest in the position and keep you top of mind for the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Chef Manager - Stevenage
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When you're writing your application, let your love for fresh, seasonal ingredients shine through. Share any experiences that highlight your culinary creativity and commitment to quality service.
Highlight Your Leadership Skills: As a Chef Manager, you’ll need to lead a team effectively. Make sure to include examples of how you've motivated and developed your team in previous roles. We want to see your energy and ability to inspire others!
Demonstrate Financial Acumen: Since managing budgets and costs is key, don’t forget to mention your experience with P&L and cost control. Show us how you've successfully managed finances in past positions to keep operations running smoothly.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dine Contract Catering
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with seasonal ingredients and current food trends. Be ready to discuss how you would create a menu that delights clients while being mindful of sustainability and local sourcing.
✨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 deliver excellent service. This role is all about inspiring others, so let your passion shine through!
✨Understand the Business Side
Brush up on your financial acumen. Be prepared to discuss how you manage food costs, waste, and labour. Showing that you understand P&L and business KPIs will demonstrate that you can run the operation like it’s your own.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
Remember, this isn’t just about your skills; it’s also about fit. Engage with your interviewers, ask questions about their expectations, and share your vision for the role. Building a connection can set you apart from other candidates.