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!
Submitting your application:
- 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 Cliffe employer: Durham University
Durham University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values creativity and collaboration within its catering team. With a commitment to employee growth, the university provides ongoing development opportunities and a highly competitive salary package, making it an ideal place for culinary professionals to thrive while serving a diverse clientele in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Head Chef - Durham in Cliffe
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow chefs, industry contacts, or even alumni from your culinary school. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you can, create a portfolio showcasing your best dishes and any events you've catered. A visual representation of your work can really make you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching the institution and its dining services. Knowing their menu and being able to suggest improvements or new ideas can impress the hiring team and show your passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on your emails for updates – they might end up in your spam folder, so check there too!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Head Chef - Durham in Cliffe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Stellar CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your culinary experience, especially in managing teams and catering for large events. Tailor it to showcase how your skills align with the role of Senior Head Chef.
Nail the Covering Letter:This is your chance to shine! Use your covering letter to tell us about your passion for food and leadership. Share specific examples that demonstrate how you meet the criteria in the Person Specification – we want to see your personality!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Avoid jargon and fluff; instead, focus on clear, impactful statements that reflect your experience and enthusiasm for the role. We appreciate honesty and clarity!
Apply Online:We prefer applications through our website, so make sure to submit yours there. It’s quick and easy! Plus, keep an eye on your inbox (and spam folder) for updates from us about your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Know Your Kitchen Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with the kitchen operations and the specific needs of a large team. Research the types of meals served and any dietary requirements that might be relevant. This will show your potential employer that you’re not just a chef, but a leader who understands the dynamics of a busy kitchen.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Head Chef, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and develop a team. Prepare examples of how you’ve successfully managed kitchen staff in the past, resolved conflicts, or improved team performance. Highlighting these experiences will help you stand out as a candidate who can elevate the kitchen’s standards.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in a high-pressure environment. Think about scenarios where you had to adapt quickly or manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Practising your responses will help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.
✨Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability
Given the nature of the role, it’s crucial to convey your willingness to work flexibly across different catering areas. Share examples of times when you’ve taken on various roles or adapted to changing circumstances in the kitchen. This will demonstrate your commitment to the team and the overall success of the catering service.
