At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead kitchen operations and deliver fresh, seasonal menus across multiple sites.
- Company: Award-winning contract caterer known for exceptional workplace hospitality.
- Benefits: Monday to Friday schedule, birthday off, free meals, and career progression.
- Other info: Enjoy exclusive masterclasses and celebrate achievements at summer and Christmas parties.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and make a real impact in diverse kitchen environments.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef with strong leadership and people management skills.
The predicted salary is between 25290 - 30910 £ per year.
- RELIEF HEAD CHEF
- Monday to Friday | Cambridge & Surrounding Areas
Lead exceptional kitchens where fresh food, innovation and outstanding hospitality come together.
At Houston & Hawkes, we're looking for an experienced Relief Head Chef to support our premium workplace catering operations across Cambridge and the surrounding areas.
This is an exciting opportunity for a talented chef who enjoys variety, thrives in different environments and takes pride in leading high-performing kitchen teams.
As a Relief Head Chef, you'll bring stability, creativity and leadership to a range of sites, maintaining exceptional standards while supporting our Head Chefs and Operations Team whenever required.
THE ROLE
- Lead kitchen operations across multiple sites in Cambridge and the surrounding areas
- Deliver fresh, seasonal menus to the highest standards
- Support retail, hospitality and fine dining services where required
- Inspire, coach and develop kitchen teams
- Maintain excellent food quality, presentation and consistency
- Manage food costs, ordering, stock control and GP
- Ensure full compliance with food safety and health & safety standards
- Build strong relationships with clients and site teams
- Drive innovation and continuously improve the food offer
- WHAT YOU'LL BRING
- Previous experience as a Head Chef within premium contract catering, hotels or restaurants
- Strong leadership and people management skills
- The ability to adapt quickly to different kitchens and teams
- A genuine passion for fresh food and exceptional hospitality
- Excellent organisational and communication skills
- A full UK driving licence is advantageous
- Pride in delivering consistently high standards
WHY JOIN HOUSTON & HAWKES?
- Monday to Friday working pattern
- Birthday off every year
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave
- Free meals on duty
- Pension scheme
- Life assurance
- Employee Assistance Programme
- CODE Hospitality membership
- Exclusive masterclasses with award-winning chef Sally Abé
- Foodie Socials
- Ongoing learning, development and genuine career progression
- Summer Awards Party celebrating our people and achievements
- Christmas Party at one of London's outstanding venues
- ABOUT HOUSTON & HAWKES
Houston & Hawkes is an independent, award-winning contract caterer recognised for creating exceptional workplace hospitality.
As a Certified B Corp, recipient of the King's Award for Enterprise and one of The Caterer's Best Places to Work in Hospitality, we're passionate about developing talented people, creating memorable food experiences and building careers that last.
Compensation: Competitive salary
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Relief Head Chef in Otley employer: Houston & Hawkes
Houston & Hawkes is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee satisfaction and growth, offering a competitive salary and the opportunity to work in a dynamic environment across various sites in Cambridge. With a strong focus on seasonal food and high culinary standards, employees benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages creativity and collaboration, making it a rewarding place for passionate chefs to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Relief Head Chef in Otley
✨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 Houston & Hawkes. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Houston & Hawkes
Don't be shy about reaching out to Houston & Hawkes 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 Relief Head Chef in Otley
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 Houston & Hawkes 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 Houston & Hawkes
✨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!
