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 Middleton 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 Middleton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the culinary world, especially those who might have insights into the role at Durham. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you get the chance, offer to do a trial shift or a cooking demonstration. This is a great way to showcase your culinary expertise and how well you work with a team.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared for the interview! Research the university’s catering style and think about how you can contribute to their mission. Bring ideas to the table that show you’re ready to elevate their food game.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’ll keep you updated throughout the process, so you won’t be left in the dark.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Head Chef - Durham in Middleton
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 for this role.
Apply Online:Remember, we prefer applications through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to us directly. Plus, keep an eye on your inbox (and spam folder) for updates from our e-recruitment system!
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 high-pressure situations. This will show that you’re not just a great chef but also a capable 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 improved service standards. Be ready to discuss your approach to training and mentoring, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions that test your problem-solving skills in real kitchen scenarios. They might ask how you would handle a sudden staff shortage or a last-minute menu change. Practise articulating your thought process clearly and confidently.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Adaptability
Since the role requires a flexible approach, be prepared to discuss how you adapt to changing circumstances. Share examples from your previous roles where you’ve had to shift priorities or take on different tasks to meet the needs of the kitchen.
