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 Lingdale 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 environment that caters to a diverse clientele.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Head Chef - Durham in Lingdale
✨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, create a portfolio showcasing your best dishes and any events you've catered. This visual evidence 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 on how you could elevate their offerings – it shows initiative and passion!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the time to follow our process.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Head Chef - Durham in Lingdale
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 impress with your culinary knowledge. Make sure you’re familiar with the menu and can discuss how you would adapt dishes for different dietary requirements or preferences. This shows your expertise and flexibility.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
You'll be supervising a large kitchen team, so be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Discuss your approach to training and developing staff, as well as how you handle conflicts or challenges in the kitchen.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
With responsibilities like managing deliveries and ensuring cleanliness, it’s crucial to highlight your organisational abilities. Prepare to talk about systems you’ve implemented in previous roles to keep the kitchen running smoothly and efficiently.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations, such as handling a busy service or dealing with a food safety issue. Think through your responses ahead of time, focusing on your problem-solving skills and ability to stay calm under pressure.