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 Newton 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 academic environment. Join us to create memorable dining experiences for our diverse community while advancing your culinary career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Head Chef - Durham in Newton
✨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 leads or insider info about openings that aren't 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 to appear. Reach out directly to restaurants or catering companies you admire and express your interest in working with them. You never know when they might need a Senior Head Chef!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to apply directly. Keep an eye on your inbox for updates from us!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Head Chef - Durham in Newton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Stellar CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your experience in managing kitchen teams and delivering exceptional food service. Tailor it to showcase your skills that align with 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 cooking and how you've led teams to success. Make sure to address all the criteria in the Person Specification – we want to see how you fit the bill!
Be Authentic:We love genuine applicants! Don’t just list your achievements; share your culinary journey and what drives you as a chef. Let your personality come through – we want to know the real you!
Apply Online:Remember, we prefer applications through our website. It’s quick and easy! Plus, you’ll get updates on your application status via email, so keep an eye on your inbox (and spam folder) to stay in the loop.
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 proactive and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Head Chef, you'll need to lead a team effectively. Prepare examples of how you've developed teams in the past or handled high-pressure situations. Be ready to discuss your management style and how you motivate your team to deliver exceptional service.
✨Flexibility is Key
The job requires a flexible approach to working across various catering areas. Be prepared to discuss your adaptability and willingness to take on different roles within the kitchen. Highlight any experiences where you’ve successfully juggled multiple tasks or adapted to changing circumstances.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your culinary skills and knowledge of food safety standards. Brush up on your cooking techniques and be ready to discuss how you ensure quality and hygiene in the kitchen. You might even want to think about how you would handle specific scenarios that could arise in a busy kitchen environment.
