At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant kitchen team to create delicious meals for students and staff.
- Company: Join the catering team at Durham University, known for its high standards.
- 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 delivering exceptional food and service in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in a kitchen leadership role and a passion for culinary excellence.
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
We prefer to receive applications online. We will update you about your application at various points during the process, via automated emails from our e-recruitment system. Please check your spam/junk folder periodically to ensure you receive all emails.
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
Contact details
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 Cramlington employer: Durham University
Durham University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises employee development and collaboration. As a Senior Head Chef, you will not only lead a dynamic kitchen team but also enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package, alongside opportunities for professional growth in a prestigious academic environment. Join us to create memorable dining experiences for our diverse community while advancing your culinary career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Head Chef - Durham in Cramlington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow chefs or industry contacts on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you can, organise a small cooking demo or pop-up event. It’s a great way to showcase your culinary talents and get noticed by potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Be flexible and open-minded. The catering world is all about adaptability, so don’t shy away from roles that might not be your dream job but could lead to bigger opportunities down the line.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Head Chef - Durham in Cramlington
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 show how you meet the specific requirements of the Senior Head Chef role.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share specific examples of your achievements in previous roles, particularly those that demonstrate your ability to lead a kitchen team and deliver exceptional service.
Showcase Your Flexibility:Since the role requires a flexible approach, make sure to mention your adaptability in your application. Give examples of how you've successfully managed various tasks in a busy kitchen environment, especially during peak times.
Apply Through Our Website:We prefer applications through our website, so make sure to submit your CV and cover letter there. This helps us keep everything organised and ensures you receive updates about your application directly to your inbox!
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. Brush up on your knowledge of food safety standards, equipment maintenance, and how to manage a busy kitchen environment. This will show that you’re not just a great chef but also a strong leader.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a kitchen team in the past. Think about times when you’ve developed team members or handled high-pressure situations. Being able to articulate your leadership style and how you motivate others will be key in this role.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility
Since the role requires a flexible approach, be ready to discuss how you adapt to changing circumstances in the kitchen. Share experiences where you’ve had to switch tasks or take on different roles to ensure service runs smoothly. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a dynamic environment.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your culinary skills and problem-solving abilities. You might be asked how you would handle a specific catering challenge or how you ensure quality across multiple meals. Practising these scenarios can help you feel more confident during the interview.
