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
We prefer to receive applications online. We will update you about your application at various points during the process, via automated emails from our e-recruitment system. Please check your spam/junk folder periodically to ensure you receive all emails.
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
Contact details
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 Whitburn 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 focus on professional development and a commitment to delivering outstanding service to a diverse clientele, employees benefit from a supportive environment that encourages growth and innovation. Located in the historic city of Durham, this role not only provides a competitive salary but also the opportunity 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 Whitburn
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the culinary world, attend local food events, or join online chef communities. 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 special events you've catered. A visual representation of your talent can really make you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching the institution and its dining services. Be ready to discuss how you can elevate their culinary offerings and lead the team effectively. Tailor your answers to reflect their values and goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, keep an eye on your inbox for updates – we’ll keep you in the loop every step of the way!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Head Chef - Durham in Whitburn
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/junk 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. 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
Highlight your ability to adapt to different roles within the kitchen. Discuss times when you’ve taken on various tasks beyond your usual responsibilities. This will demonstrate your willingness to support the team and ensure smooth operations, which is crucial for catering to a large number of students and staff.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about food safety, kitchen hygiene, and equipment maintenance. Brush up on best practices and be ready to explain how you ensure a clean and efficient kitchen environment. This will reassure the interviewers that you take these aspects seriously and can maintain high standards.
