At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant kitchen team to create delicious meals for students and staff.
- Company: Join Durham University, a place where your culinary skills can shine.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, rewards package, and ongoing development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working across all catering areas with great career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by serving high-profile clientele and shaping dining experiences.
- Qualifications: Experience in a busy kitchen and strong leadership skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
The Senior Head Chef will be responsible for supervising a large kitchen team which produces three meals per day for up to 600 students and staff. The post holder will be responsible for catering for high profile clientele, private dining external functions and banqueting. The Head Chef must be able to develop existing teams to ensure that consistently exceptional standard of food and service is delivered. The post holder will also assist with day to day cleaning of kitchen and catering equipment, receipt and storage of goods, checking and signing for deliveries.
Catering team members will be expected to adopt and promote a flexible approach to working, and to undertake any or all of the tasks outlined below regardless of their designated shift. The post holder will be required to work flexibly across all catering areas.
In addition to a highly competitive salary and rewards package, our strategic focus includes ongoing development opportunities for our people. Join us today and shape your career at Durham University!
What you are required to submit:
- A CV
- A covering letter or statement which shows examples of how you meet all of the criteria within the Person Specification
If you would like to have a chat or ask any questions about the role, the Systems and Administration Team would be happy to speak to you.
Senior Head Chef - Durham in Acomb employer: Durham University
Durham University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values creativity and teamwork in the kitchen. With a commitment to employee growth, we provide ongoing development opportunities and a highly competitive salary package, making it an ideal place for culinary professionals to thrive while serving a diverse clientele. Join us in Durham, where you can make a meaningful impact on the dining experience of our students and staff.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Head Chef - Durham in Acomb
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow chefs, industry contacts, or even alumni from your culinary school. A friendly chat can lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you can, organise a tasting event or a pop-up kitchen to showcase your culinary talents. This not only gets your name out there but also gives potential employers a taste of what you can do.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings. Reach out directly to restaurants or catering companies you admire. A well-timed email can make all the difference and show your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love hearing from passionate chefs who want to join our team at Durham University!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Head Chef - Durham in Acomb
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Stellar CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your culinary experience, leadership skills, and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to manage a large kitchen team.
Nail the Covering Letter:This is your chance to shine! Use your covering letter to tell us how you meet the criteria in the Person Specification. Share specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your skills and passion for catering.
Be Authentic:We want to get to know the real you! Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. Show us why you’re not just a great chef, but also a great fit for our team.
Apply Online:Remember, we prefer applications through our website. It’s quick and easy, plus you’ll receive updates about your application status via email. Just keep an eye on your spam folder to catch any important messages!
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
As a Senior Head Chef, you’ll need to showcase your culinary expertise. Familiarise yourself with the types of meals you’ll be preparing and be ready to discuss your approach to menu planning, especially for high-profile events. Bring examples of your previous work or ideas for new dishes that could impress.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
You’ll be supervising a large kitchen team, so it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership style. Prepare examples of how you’ve developed teams in the past, handled conflicts, or improved kitchen efficiency. Highlight your ability to motivate and inspire others to maintain high standards.
✨Flexibility is Key
The role requires a flexible approach to working across various catering areas. Be prepared to discuss how you adapt to changing circumstances in a busy kitchen environment. Share experiences where you’ve successfully managed multiple tasks or shifts without compromising on quality.
✨Attention to Detail Matters
With responsibilities like checking deliveries and maintaining kitchen cleanliness, attention to detail is essential. During the interview, mention specific instances where your meticulous nature has led to improved operations or enhanced food safety standards. This will show you take pride in every aspect of your role.
