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 commitment to excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, rewards package, and ongoing development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working across all catering areas with a focus on teamwork.
- Why this job: Shape your culinary career while serving a diverse community in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in a high-volume 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 Haswell employer: Durham University
Durham University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values creativity and teamwork in the kitchen. With a focus on professional development, employees have access to ongoing training and growth opportunities, ensuring that your culinary skills are continually honed. Located in a historic city, the role of Senior Head Chef not only provides a competitive salary but also the chance to cater for high-profile events, making it a rewarding position for those passionate about delivering outstanding food and service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Head Chef - Durham in Haswell
✨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.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Head Chef - Durham in Haswell
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, so keep an eye on your inbox (and spam folder)!
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 for students and staff. Be ready to discuss your favourite dishes, cooking techniques, and how you can adapt menus for high-profile clientele.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
You’ll be supervising a large kitchen team, so it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you’ve successfully managed teams in the past, resolved conflicts, or trained new staff. Highlight your approach to fostering a positive kitchen environment.
✨Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability
The role requires a flexible approach to working across various catering areas. Be prepared to discuss times when you’ve had to adapt quickly to changing circumstances in the kitchen. This could include handling unexpected dietary requirements or managing last-minute changes in service.
✨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.
