At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering operation, from menu planning to team management and client relations.
- Company: Join Dine, a passionate team focused on sustainability and outstanding service.
- Benefits: Exciting culinary pathways, real-time mentoring, and opportunities for recognised qualifications.
- Other info: Work with fresh, local ingredients and contribute to a sustainable future.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the culinary world while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as a Head Chef or Chef Manager with strong operational skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
This role includes working 4 days at site and 1 day per week supporting other sites within the region. Therefore a driving licence and access to a vehicle is required. This would be the perfect role for someone looking to get into an area support role in the future.
We're looking for a Chef Manager who can do more than cook to join our Dine team in Spennymoor. This is a role for a hands-on leader who's as confident at the stove as they are in a client meeting, someone who understands how to run a business, manage a team, and deliver food that delights.
As the heartbeat of the site, you'll oversee every aspect of the catering operation, from menu planning and team leadership to client relationships, budgets, compliance, and service delivery. You'll cook with passion, lead with purpose, and run the outlet like it's your own.
What You'll Be Doing:
- Oversee the full catering operation from food to finance to front of house.
- Lead, develop and motivate your team to deliver excellent service every day.
- Manage food costs, margins, waste and labour with commercial precision.
- Build strong relationships with our clients and guests, understanding their needs, exceeding expectations and delivering service with an impact.
- Ensure compliance with food safety, health & safety and company standards at all times.
- Drive consistency and quality across the kitchen and wider catering operation.
Requirements:
- Proven experience as a Head Chef or Chef Manager with strong operational experience.
- A passion for fresh food, seasonal ingredients, and high-quality service delivery.
- Great communication and leadership skills; you inspire others with your energy.
- A strong sense of ownership and ability to manage client relationships.
- Strong financial acumen; you understand P&L, cost control, and business KPIs.
- Excellent communication and people management skills; you build trust, lead by example, and bring out the best in your team.
Hungry for more? We also offer exciting culinary pathways for team members who want to level up. With real-time mentoring, hands-on experience, and the chance to earn recognised qualifications, it's a delicious way to grow your skills while doing what you love.
Dine provides tailored food services to 140 clients in the business and industry sector. With over two decades of industry experience, we pride ourselves on offering a personalised approach to our clients, whilst delivering outstanding service. Our passion lies in creating great-tasting menus, promoting sustainability, and proudly working with local suppliers and communities. That's why our menus feature only locally sourced, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients with a target of reaching Climate Zero.
Chef Manager - County Durham employer: Equipment Sales & Service Limited.
Join our Dine team in Spennymoor as a Chef Manager, where you'll not only lead a passionate kitchen but also enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With opportunities for real-time mentoring and recognised qualifications, we empower our team to excel while delivering exceptional service to our clients. Our commitment to sustainability and local sourcing makes this role not just a job, but a meaningful career in the culinary world.
Contact Details:
Equipment Sales & Service Limited. Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef Manager - County Durham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Dine and its values. This will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your cooking skills! Since this role is all about food, be ready to showcase your culinary talents. Maybe even prepare a dish that reflects your passion for fresh, seasonal ingredients to impress during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your financial knowledge! Understanding P&L and cost control is crucial for this role. Be prepared to discuss how you've managed budgets in the past and how you can apply that experience to Dine.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you note to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to keep yourself top of mind and show your enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Chef Manager - County Durham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:When writing your application, let your love for fresh, seasonal ingredients shine through. Share any experiences that highlight your culinary creativity and commitment to quality service – we want to see your passion!
Highlight Your Leadership Skills:As a Chef Manager, you’ll be leading a team, so make sure to showcase your leadership experience. Talk about how you've motivated teams in the past and how you plan to inspire others at Dine.
Demonstrate Financial Acumen:Since managing budgets and costs is key in this role, don’t forget to mention your experience with P&L and cost control. We’re looking for someone who can run the operation like it’s their own, so show us you’ve got the numbers down!
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’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out on joining our Dine team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Equipment Sales & Service Limited.
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with seasonal ingredients and local suppliers. Be ready to discuss how you would create a menu that delights clients while promoting sustainability. This shows your passion for fresh food and your understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led a team in the past. Think about specific situations where you motivated your team or resolved conflicts. This will demonstrate your ability to inspire others and manage client relationships effectively.
✨Understand the Business Side
Brush up on your financial acumen, especially around P&L, cost control, and business KPIs. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve managed budgets and driven profitability in previous roles. This will highlight your operational experience and commercial precision.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific challenges, like managing food costs or ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. Think through your responses ahead of time so you can showcase your problem-solving skills and operational knowledge.
