At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a talented kitchen team and create high-quality dishes using Yorkshire produce.
- Company: Join Fodder, an award-winning farm shop and café celebrating local food.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days holiday, discounts, and a positive work-life balance.
- Other info: Be part of a friendly, values-led organisation with excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local food while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in a busy kitchen and team management is essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Kitchen Manager or Head Chef to lead a talented kitchen team, champion the best of Yorkshire produce and help shape the next stage of Fodder's catering offer.
You will take ownership of the day-to-day running of a busy kitchen and support Fodder's takeaway offer.
You will create consistently high-quality dishes while ensuring efficiency, strong standards and financial targets are achieved.
You will train, motivate and develop the team, helping them share their knowledge and enthusiasm for the outstanding Yorkshire food we serve.
Working Pattern
40 hours per week, working 5 out of 7 operational days.
The role offers a positive work‑life balance, with Fodder closed on Easter Sunday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day.
About us
Fodder is an award‑winning farm shop and cafe celebrating the very best food and drink from Yorkshire.
Fodder acts as a shop window for local farmers and producers, helping consumers to access local food easily.
All the profits from Fodder go to help fund the charitable work of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society.
Fodder is well known for its quality and exceptional customer service.
At Fodder, you will be part of a friendly, values‑led organisation where your ideas, leadership and standards can make a visible difference every day.
This is a role for someone who is passionate about great local food, proud to lead by example and excited by the opportunity to develop people, menus and the customer experience.
Professional we act with integrity, we are reliable, consistent, and honest. We deliver on our promises; we are accountable.
Respectful we are kind, courteous and considerate; we are mindful of others. We are happy, friendly and create a productive, fun, working environment.
Open-minded we are receptive to new ideas and innovative ways of working together. We listen to and respect the opinions and perspectives of others.
United we work together, as a united team. We communicate, collaborate, and share knowledge in pursuit of our common goals.
Dedicated we are focused, loyal and ready to help each other. We are committed to going the extra‑mile to deliver a first‑class service to everyone we work with.
Accreditation
Fodder is accredited with Best Companies as a Top 75 Mid sized Employer in the UK, Top 20 UK Best Charitable Employer in the UK, and top 45 Best Regional Employer in Yorkshire & Humber.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the day‑to‑day operations of a busy, successful kitchen in a hands‑on management role.
- Create consistently high‑quality dishes that celebrate the best of Yorkshire produce.
- Help develop menus that showcase Yorkshire food and actively coach the team to deliver quality, efficient and timely food production.
- Ensure the kitchen team operates to consistently high standards, including portion control, presentation, garnishes and food hygiene requirements.
- Lead, inspire and develop the kitchen team in line with Society procedures, policies and values.
- Achieve financial targets, including sales, pricing, product margin and wage margin, using the EPOS system to review daily and weekly performance.
- Support the Catering Manager in maintaining high customer satisfaction and resolving customer feedback or complaints professionally.
- Plan and prepare kitchen schedules, ensuring these are kept within budget.
- To ensure all health and safety regulations for Fodder are adhered to and followed, including maintaining and updating allergen processes.
- Ensure the Fodder HACCP plan is followed, complete all relevant paperwork and play a key part in maintaining a 5‑star food hygiene rating.
- Be a key holder, opening and locking Fodder as required.
- To be a fire warden and first aider for Fodder.
- Bring the Society's values to life through the way you lead, communicate and support others.
- It is not possible for this document to totally encompass or define all tasks that may be required of the post holder.
The outlined duties may therefore vary from time to time without materially changing either the character or level of responsibility.
Experience & Qualifications
- Experience in producing consistently top‑quality food in a busy kitchen.
- Experience of leading, motivating and developing a successful team while running a profitable kitchen.
- Good level of written and verbal skills.
- Knowledge of the Microsoft Office Software Suite.
- Food Safety Level 2 qualification is preferred. First Aid and Fire Marshal training would be advantageous.
- Personal Skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Polite and approachable.
- Focus, thoroughness, and keen attention to detail.
- Has a 'can do/will do' attitude.
- Excellent planning & organisational skills.
- Remains focused when faced with competing demands.
- Keeps people informed of progress on key tasks.
- Work to tight deadlines.
- Accepts new ideas and change initiatives.
Salary and Benefits
- 30 days' holiday, including bank holidays
- 20% discount in our on‑site, award‑winning Fodder farm shop
- 50% discount at Harrogate Sports and Fitness Centre
- Two staff social events each year
- Pension with 3% employer contribution
- Access to an Employee Assistance Programme and a GP helpline
- Non‑contributory life assurance of 4x annual salary
- Complimentary Great Yorkshire Show tickets after qualifying period
- Free on‑site parking
- A positive work‑life balance
- Closed on Easter Sunday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day
- Kitchen Manager • Harrogate, England, GB
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Kitchen Manager in Harrogate employer: Fodder
Fodder is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture at the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate, where you can thrive in a supportive environment while serving high-quality local cuisine. With team discounts and engaging social events, we prioritise employee satisfaction and personal development, making it a rewarding place to grow your career in the catering industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Manager in Harrogate
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Fodder. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Fodder
Don't be shy about reaching out to Fodder directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Kitchen Manager in Harrogate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Fodder and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Fodder
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
