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 commitment to excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, rewards package, and ongoing development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working across all catering areas with a focus on teamwork.
- Why this job: Shape your culinary career while serving a diverse community in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in a high-volume 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 Whitwell 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 a rewarding career path. 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 unique and fulfilling position.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Head Chef - Durham in Whitwell
✨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 leads or insider info about openings that aren't 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 to appear. 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 connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Head Chef - Durham in Whitwell
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. 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
The job requires a flexible approach to working across various catering areas. Be prepared to discuss your adaptability and willingness to take on different roles within the kitchen. Highlight any experiences where you’ve successfully juggled multiple tasks or adapted to changing circumstances.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your culinary skills and knowledge of food safety standards. Brush up on your cooking techniques and be ready to discuss how you ensure quality and hygiene in the kitchen. You might even want to think about how you would handle specific scenarios that could arise in a busy kitchen environment.
