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 Sherburn Hill 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 Sherburn Hill
✨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 seeing candidates who take the initiative to apply directly. Let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Head Chef - Durham in Sherburn Hill
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Stellar CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your culinary achievements, leadership experience, and any relevant qualifications. Tailor it to showcase how you can lead our kitchen team at Durham.
Nail the Covering Letter:This is your chance to shine! Use your covering letter to tell us about your passion for food and service. Share specific examples that demonstrate how you meet the criteria in the Person Specification – we want to see your personality!
Be Authentic:We love genuine applicants! Don’t just list your skills; let us know what makes you tick as a chef. Share your culinary philosophy and how you inspire your team to deliver exceptional standards.
Apply Online:We prefer applications through our website, so make sure to submit everything there. Keep an eye on your inbox (and spam folder) for updates from us – we’ll keep you in the loop throughout the process!
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 not just a chef, but a leader who understands the dynamics of a busy kitchen.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Head Chef, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and develop a team. Prepare examples of how you’ve successfully managed kitchen staff in the past, resolved conflicts, or improved team performance. Highlighting these experiences will help you stand out as a candidate who can elevate the kitchen’s standards.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in a high-pressure environment. Think about scenarios where you had to adapt quickly, manage multiple tasks, or handle unexpected challenges. Practising your responses will help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.
✨Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability
Given the nature of the role, it’s crucial to convey your willingness to work flexibly across different catering areas. Share examples from your previous roles where you’ve taken on various responsibilities or adapted to changing circumstances. This will demonstrate your commitment to the team and the overall success of the kitchen.
