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:
- 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 Crook employer: Durham University
Durham University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises employee development and collaboration within a dynamic kitchen environment. As a Senior Head Chef, you will not only lead a talented team in delivering outstanding culinary experiences for a diverse clientele but also benefit from a competitive salary and ongoing professional growth opportunities in a prestigious academic setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Head Chef - Durham in Crook
✨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 or call can make all the difference in landing that dream role.
✨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 are ready to take their career to the next level with us at Durham University.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Head Chef - Durham in Crook
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 cooking.
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 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, particularly in high-pressure situations. Highlight any training or mentoring experiences you've had, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and creativity in the kitchen. Think about scenarios where you had to adapt recipes or manage resources effectively. Practising these responses can 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 various catering areas. Share examples of times when you’ve had to step outside your usual responsibilities to ensure the success of an event or service. This will demonstrate your commitment to the team and the overall mission.
