At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team to create exceptional dining experiences at Manchester Airport.
- Company: Family-run UK business focused on delighting airport customers.
- Benefits: Free meals, 28 days annual leave, flexible pay access, and health perks.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Join us to make a real impact in a fast-paced, exciting environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in kitchen management and a passion for food is essential.
The predicted salary is between 31950 - 39050 £ per year.
We are a family-run UK business operating food and beverage outlets at airports, creating exceptional experiences for all our customers. We believe airport customers deserve better - we ARE here to delight. We are looking for a committed and enthusiastic individual to join our team as Senior Sous Chef at Manchester Airport, leading our outlets to deliver exceptional food and outstanding customer service with a highly trained and motivated team.
As Senior Sous Chef, you will play a vital role in supporting the Senior Head Chef overseeing the kitchen’s day-to-day performance while maintaining the highest standards of quality, hygiene, and efficiency. You will also take responsibility for the business in the Senior Head Chef’s absence, leading by example and helping drive our success. The Great Northern Market concept at Manchester Airport includes managing a kitchen brigade with six kitchens, offering a diverse range of cuisines such as fried chicken, smashed burgers, burritos, hand-stretched pizza, Asian, Greek, and a breakfast menu. The venue has approximately 470 covers and operates from 3am to 10pm.
If you're passionate about hospitality, enjoy managing teams, and want to make a significant impact, we’d love to hear from you.
The Role
As part of the senior management team, you’ll be responsible for managing all aspects of the kitchen, including stock control, food preparation, and ensuring compliance with hygiene, health and safety, and allergen protocols. You’ll work collaboratively with the front of house team to deliver exceptional dishes for every guest and ensure the kitchen operates efficiently and profitably. Supporting the Senior Head Chef, you’ll ensure our consistently high service levels are maintained in line with company policies, driving sales and operational efficiency and leading the outlet team during your shifts.
Main Duties
- Ensure the department meets revenue and profit targets.
- Oversee, coach, and guide the team to continuously improve service while adhering to health and safety, food hygiene, food allergens and company specifications/policies.
- Motivate the team through positive communication to deliver excellent quality food in a timely fashion.
- Ensure the health, safety, and wellbeing of colleagues at all times.
- Keep senior management informed of any significant issues arising during shifts.
- Ensure confidentiality and act in accordance with data protection requirements when handling personal data.
Requirements
We are seeking an experienced, self-motivated, and enthusiastic individual who is flexible with shift patterns and has a passion for delivering an outstanding dining experience. Leadership experience in a fast-paced kitchen environment is essential. To excel in this role, you’ll have:
- Level 3 Food hygiene certificate (desirable but not essential).
- Significant proven management experience in a kitchen environment, including staff training and development.
- Familiarity with airport-based hospitality (preferred but not essential).
- Demonstrable experience of delivering excellent food preparation services.
- Experience in delivering agreed menus to brand standards.
- Experience with procurement of stock through specified suppliers as needed.
- Proven track record of implementing continuous improvement initiatives.
- Good level of written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Strong communicator with a clear and supportive leadership style.
- Financially aware, with sound budget controls and effective stock management.
- Strong leadership skills, capable of motivating a team in a busy kitchen environment.
- Performance management skills to maximise individual potential through coaching.
- In-depth knowledge of health and safety requirements in a kitchen, including HACCP, COSHH, food allergens, equipment maintenance, and safety practices.
Personal Qualities
We’re looking for someone who is:
- Resilient and able to deliver results in a fast-paced environment.
- Results-oriented and motivated by achieving stretching objectives.
- Calm and approachable under pressure.
- Passionate about food.
Our values, Growth, Respect, Innovation, Togetherness (GRIT) are reflected in the behaviours we demand. ARE you:
- Curious, passionate and resilient.
- Responsible, hard-working and keen to help others.
- Willing to show up, be positive and have FUN!
Perks & Benefits
- Fully subsidised on-site airport parking.
- Free meals while on duty at the site, from the 'Staff Duty Meal' options.
- Tronc (tips and gratuities distribution system) via an elected tronc master.
- 28 days annual leave (including Bank Holidays), increasing by 1 day a year up to a maximum of 32 days.
- NEST pension.
- Wagestream (flexible pay access).
- Health & wellbeing cash plan, also offering discounts and perks across hundreds of retailers.
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme for health and well-being support from day one.
- Staff referral bonus scheme.
Please note: All successful candidates will be required to:
- Provide proof of their right to work in the UK.
- Hold an Airport Security ID Pass, which we will assist with.
- The application process requires the production of a valid passport, a criminal record check, and five years of personal and employment references.
Equal Opportunities
At ARE Ltd, we recognise the value of diversity and inclusivity in fostering a truly remarkable experience for all our customers. Our commitment extends beyond retail to building a workforce that reflects the wide array of perspectives and experiences found across the UK. We believe that embracing diversity in our teams enables us to provide exceptional service and innovation. We are dedicated to ensuring all our employees are treated fairly and equitably at work, with a strong commitment to promoting equity in both physical and mental health for everyone. To achieve this, we encourage applications from individuals of disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds, disabled persons, LGBTQ+ community members, Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, and those with lived experiences of discrimination.
Accessibility and Adjustments
ARE Ltd is committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process. We strive to be as accommodating as possible to ensure all candidates can participate fully. If you have specific requirements or need adjustments at any stage of the application or interview process, please do not hesitate to get in touch. In your application, feel free to indicate your preferred pronouns (for example - she/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/theirs, etc.) to help us better address and respect your identity throughout the process.
Senior Sous Chef in Manchester employer: Great Northern Market
Join a family-run business at Manchester Airport that prioritises exceptional customer experiences and a supportive work culture. As a Senior Sous Chef, you'll benefit from fully subsidised on-site parking, free meals during shifts, and a generous leave policy that increases with your tenure. We are committed to employee growth and inclusivity, ensuring you thrive in a dynamic kitchen environment while making a meaningful impact on our diverse culinary offerings.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Sous Chef in Manchester
✨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 Great Northern Market. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Great Northern Market
Don't be shy about reaching out to Great Northern Market 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 Senior Sous Chef in Manchester
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 Great Northern Market 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 Great Northern Market
✨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!
