At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant kitchen team to create delicious meals for students and staff.
- Company: Join the catering team at Durham University, known for its high standards.
- 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 delivering exceptional food and service in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in a kitchen leadership role and a passion for culinary excellence.
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 Whickham 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 and picturesque setting, working here not only provides a competitive salary but also the chance to make a meaningful impact on the dining experience of students and staff alike.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Head Chef - Durham in Whickham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the culinary world and let them know you're on the hunt for a Senior Head Chef role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you get the chance, organise a tasting session or a demo of your cooking style. This is a great way to showcase your culinary expertise and creativity, making you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Be flexible and adaptable! The job description mentions a need for flexibility across catering areas, so be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed diverse kitchen environments in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, keep an eye on your emails (and spam folder) for updates on your application status – we want to keep you in the loop!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Head Chef - Durham in Whickham
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, so keep an eye on your inbox (and spam folder)!
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, menu planning, and how to manage high-pressure situations. This will show that you’re not just a great chef but also a strong leader.
✨Showcase Your Team Development Skills
Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully developed kitchen teams in the past. Share specific examples of training initiatives or mentoring experiences that led to improved performance. This will highlight your ability to foster a positive working environment and ensure exceptional service.
✨Flexibility is Key
Since the role requires a flexible approach, be ready to talk about your adaptability in various kitchen settings. Share instances where you’ve taken on different roles or adjusted your schedule to meet the demands of the kitchen. This will demonstrate your commitment to teamwork and versatility.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations, like handling a busy service or resolving a conflict within the team. Think through your responses ahead of time, focusing on your problem-solving skills and how you maintain high standards under pressure. This will help you stand out as a proactive leader.
