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!
What you are required to submit:
- 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 Summerhouse 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 highly competitive salary 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 Summerhouse
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow chefs or industry contacts on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings 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 places you’d love to work at, like Durham University. A well-timed email can make all the difference!
✨Tip Number 4
Keep your online presence sharp! Update your social media profiles with your latest culinary creations and experiences. Employers often check these out, so let them see your passion and expertise!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Head Chef - Durham in Summerhouse
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:Let your personality come through in your application. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for the role and the culinary arts. Share your unique experiences and what drives you as a chef – it helps us get to know the real you!
Apply Online:We prefer applications through our website, so make it easy for us to find you! Plus, keep an eye on your inbox (and spam folder) for updates from our e-recruitment system. We’re excited to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
As a Senior Head Chef, you’ll need to showcase your culinary expertise. Familiarise yourself with the types of meals you’ll be preparing and be ready to discuss your approach to menu planning, especially for large groups. Think about how you can cater to diverse dietary needs and preferences.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
You’ll be supervising a large kitchen team, so it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you’ve successfully managed teams in the past, resolved conflicts, or improved team performance. Highlight your ability to inspire and develop others.
✨Discuss Flexibility and Adaptability
The role requires a flexible approach to working across various catering areas. Be ready to share experiences where you’ve had to adapt quickly to changing circumstances in a kitchen environment. This could include handling unexpected challenges during service or adjusting menus on the fly.
✨Emphasise Attention to Detail
With responsibilities like checking deliveries and maintaining kitchen cleanliness, attention to detail is key. Prepare to discuss how you ensure high standards in food safety and hygiene, as well as how you maintain quality control in your dishes. This will show that you take pride in your work.
