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 Stanhope employer: Durham University
Durham University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values creativity and collaboration within its catering team. With a commitment to employee growth, the university provides ongoing development opportunities and a competitive rewards package, making it an ideal place for culinary professionals to thrive while serving a diverse clientele in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Head Chef - Durham in Stanhope
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow chefs, industry contacts, or even alumni from your culinary school. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you can, create a portfolio showcasing your best dishes and any events you've catered. A visual representation of your work can really make you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching the institution's dining style and menu. Tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their needs, especially when it comes to catering for high-profile clientele.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Head Chef - Durham in Stanhope
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. Just keep an eye on your spam folder to catch any important messages!
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, particularly in high-pressure situations. Highlight any training or mentoring experiences that showcase your commitment to team development.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in the kitchen. Think about scenarios where you had to handle unexpected challenges, such as supply shortages or last-minute menu changes. Practising these responses will help you convey your quick thinking and adaptability.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility
The job requires a flexible approach to working across various catering areas. Be prepared to discuss your willingness to adapt to different roles and responsibilities within the kitchen. Share examples of times when you’ve stepped outside your usual duties to ensure the team’s success.
