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 Easington Colliery 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 Easington Colliery
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the culinary world, attend local food events, and join online chef communities. 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 special events you've catered. A visual representation of your talent can really make you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching the institution's dining style and menu. Bring ideas to the table about how you can elevate their offerings. This shows you're not just interested in the job, but genuinely invested in their success.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the quickest way to get your application seen. Plus, we keep you updated throughout the process, so you won’t be left hanging. Don’t forget to check your spam folder for any updates!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Head Chef - Durham in Easington Colliery
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.
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've delivered exceptional standards in previous roles, especially in high-pressure environments.
Show Your Flexibility:We love a team player! In your application, mention your willingness to adapt and take on various tasks across different catering areas. This shows us you're ready to jump in wherever needed, which is key in our dynamic kitchen environment.
Apply Through Our Website:We prefer applications through our website, so make sure you submit everything there. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you receive all updates. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
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.
✨Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability
The role requires a flexible approach to working across various catering areas. Be ready to discuss times when you’ve had to adapt quickly to changing circumstances in the kitchen. This could include managing unexpected staff shortages or adjusting menus based on available ingredients.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions to ask about their catering philosophy, team dynamics, or future plans for the kitchen. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
