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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team, creating delicious meals and ensuring top-notch service.
- Company: Join Dine Contract Catering, a leader in tailored food services with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a Monday to Friday schedule, competitive salary, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team aiming for Climate Zero by 2030 while showcasing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Previous experience in a similar role and strong leadership skills are essential.
- Other info: Dine values diversity and empowers all team members to thrive.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 42000 £ per year.
Fixed Term contract for 6 months. Up to £35,000 per annum (pro-rota) depending on experience. Monday to Friday role!
We are looking for a talented, enthusiastic Head Chef for our dedicated Dine Contract Catering team producing outstanding food using the finest and freshest ingredients in this prestigious contract.
About the role
- Services include breakfast, lunch, hospitality and coffee shop.
- Plan, organise, innovate and direct the preparation and cooking of food to ensure the company's reputation for quality is enhanced with customers and clients at all times.
- Drive ours and our clients sustainability mission to be net zero by 2030.
- Create a positive kitchen environment where your team feel welcomed, supported and developed.
- Focus on service execution and delivery excellence at all times.
- Drive sales through menu planning and promotions.
- Responsible for implementing and maintaining high levels of cleanliness, food safety, HS and COSHH within the kitchen.
- Maintain food monitoring procedures to facilitate budgetary control and monitor all costs involved in the kitchen against agreed budgets.
- Maintain the centre of excellence in food and customer service.
About You
- Previous experience in a similar role ideally within a contract catering environment.
- Ability to successfully motivate and manage a team to deliver consistent standards.
- Excellent and innovative culinary and presentation skills.
- Passionate about all things hospitality with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Leads and inspires a team with a progressive mindset in developing people.
- A clear understanding of profit margins, purchasing policy, budgeting and food costing.
- Stock and Waste control experience.
- Understanding of food management systems HACCP, Food Safety, Health and Safety, Natasha's Law, Allergens and Manual Handling.
If you've got what it takes to join some of the food service industry's best and brightest, we want to hear from you.
Fixed Term Head Chef - Reading employer: ESS
Contact Detail:
ESS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Fixed Term Head Chef - Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in sustainable cooking and local sourcing. Since this role emphasises sustainability and using local ingredients, showcasing your knowledge in these areas during your interview can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing a kitchen team effectively. Highlight specific examples where you've motivated your team or improved kitchen operations, as this will demonstrate your leadership skills and ability to create a positive work environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Dine Contract Catering's current menu offerings and think about how you could innovate or enhance them. Being able to present fresh ideas during your interview will show your enthusiasm for the role and your commitment to maintaining high standards.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the catering industry, especially those who have experience in contract catering. They may provide insights or even referrals that could help you land the job. Don't hesitate to reach out on platforms like LinkedIn!
We think you need these skills to ace Fixed Term Head Chef - Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in contract catering and showcases your culinary skills. Emphasise any previous roles where you managed a team or contributed to sustainability initiatives.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality and your understanding of the company's mission. Mention specific examples of how you've driven sales through menu planning or improved kitchen operations in past roles.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've motivated and developed a team. Highlight any innovative approaches you've taken to create a positive kitchen environment and ensure high standards.
Demonstrate Knowledge of Food Safety: Include details about your understanding of food management systems, HACCP, and health and safety regulations. This will show that you are well-prepared to maintain high levels of cleanliness and food safety in the kitchen.
How to prepare for a job interview at ESS
✨Showcase Your Culinary Passion
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for cooking and hospitality during the interview. Share specific examples of dishes you've created or innovative ideas you've implemented in previous roles to demonstrate your passion for food.
✨Highlight Team Leadership Skills
As a Head Chef, you'll need to motivate and manage a team effectively. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully developed and supported your team in past positions.
✨Understand Sustainability Goals
Familiarise yourself with the company's sustainability mission, especially their target of reaching Climate Zero by 2030. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to this goal through menu planning and sourcing local ingredients.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Food Safety Standards
Since food safety is crucial in this role, ensure you can talk confidently about your understanding of HACCP, food management systems, and relevant health and safety regulations. This will show that you prioritise cleanliness and safety in the kitchen.
