At a Glance
- Tasks: Step into various kitchens, support teams, and ensure high standards.
- Company: Caterplus, a trusted name in community catering.
- Benefits: Car allowance, free meals, flexible hours, and 28+ days holiday.
- Other info: Opportunities for career development and paid volunteering.
- Why this job: Enjoy variety, autonomy, and be the go-to person when it matters.
- Qualifications: Senior chef experience, strong leadership, and a passion for service.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Step away from the same kitchen every day. As a Relief Chef Manager with Caterplus, you’ll become our trusted regional expert – stepping into different sites across the region to support, steady the ship and keep our communities well‑fed and cared for. If you’re a confident, adaptable chef who enjoys variety, autonomy and a role that genuinely makes you feel needed, this is the one. This role covers Durham and the surrounding areas. You must be flexible, hold a full valid UK driving licence and have your own reliable transportation.
Responsibilities
- Cover planned and unplanned absence across multiple Caterplus locations
- Support teams during busy periods or transition
- Bring consistency, standards and leadership wherever you go
- Keep kitchens running safely, efficiently and to Caterplus standards
- Act as the regional specialist for Textured Modified Foods (TMF), delivering training and best practice
- Build strong relationships with managers and operations teams across the region
- Role model high standards in H&S, food safety and compliance
Qualifications
- Senior chef experience
- Calm, organised and confident under pressure
- A genuine passion for customer service
- Strong kitchen management and people leadership
- A positive, solutions‑focused approach
- TMF experience helpful, though training provided
- 5 out of 7 days covering sites across Durham and surrounding areas within our over‑55 catering communities
Benefits
- Car allowance and mileage (within Durham and surrounding areas)
- Free, tasty meals provided on site
- Flexible working, including part‑time roles
- 28 days holiday per year, increasing to 31 days after two years
- Paid volunteering days for causes you care about
- Career development and learning opportunities at all stages
- Pension scheme and life assurance
- Exclusive discounts for entertainment, leisure and travel
Why This Role Works for You
- Variety instead of routine
- More responsibility and autonomy
- Wider visibility with senior leaders (accelerates progression)
- A role where you’re the person people rely on when it counts
Relief Chef Manager - Fixed Term Contract in North East employer: Elior Uk
Caterplus is an exceptional employer that offers a dynamic work environment for Relief Chef Managers, allowing you to step into various kitchens across Durham and its surrounding areas. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive culture, you will enjoy the autonomy to make a real impact while being part of a team that values your expertise and dedication to customer service. Additionally, the benefits such as a car allowance, generous holiday entitlement, and opportunities for career development make Caterplus a rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Relief Chef Manager - Fixed Term Contract in North East
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the catering industry and let them know you're on the lookout for a Relief Chef Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your hands dirty with some practical experience! Volunteer at local events or pop into kitchens to showcase your skills. This not only builds your CV but also gives you a chance to meet potential employers face-to-face.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive and apply through our website! We love seeing enthusiastic candidates who take the initiative. Tailor your application to highlight your adaptability and leadership skills, which are key for a Relief Chef Manager.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to kitchen management and customer service. Show us your calm and organised approach under pressure, and don’t forget to share examples of how you've built strong relationships in past roles!
We think you need these skills to ace Relief Chef Manager - Fixed Term Contract in North East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Variety:In your application, let us know how much you thrive on variety and adaptability. Share examples of how you've successfully managed different kitchen environments or tackled unexpected challenges. We love seeing that passion shine through!
Highlight Your Leadership Skills:As a Relief Chef Manager, you'll be stepping into various teams. Make sure to emphasise your leadership experience and how you've built strong relationships in past roles. We want to see how you can inspire and support others!
Be Clear About Your Flexibility:Since this role covers multiple locations, it's crucial to highlight your flexibility. Mention your full UK driving licence and reliable transport, and reassure us that you're ready to step in wherever needed. We appreciate a can-do attitude!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you're keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Elior Uk
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your culinary skills and knowledge about Textured Modified Foods (TMF). Familiarise yourself with the specific standards and practices of Caterplus, as they’ll want to see that you can maintain their high standards across different kitchens.
✨Show Your Flexibility
Since this role requires covering various locations, be ready to discuss your adaptability. Share examples of how you've successfully managed different kitchen environments or handled unexpected challenges in the past.
✨Build Rapport
Demonstrate your people skills by talking about how you’ve built strong relationships with teams in previous roles. Caterplus values a positive, solutions-focused approach, so highlight instances where you’ve led a team through busy periods or transitions.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready for your interviewers. Ask about their expectations for the Relief Chef Manager role or how they support their chefs in maintaining high standards. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
