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- Tasks: Join our team to deliver exceptional catering experiences and maintain food standards.
- Company: Be part of the UK's largest employee-owned business, John Lewis Partnership.
- Benefits: Enjoy free food on workdays, flexible hours, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Experience a vibrant culture focused on kindness, respect, and personal growth.
- Qualifications: Flexibility, passion for food, and teamwork skills are essential; kitchen experience is a plus.
- Other info: Part-time role with 15 hours per week, including weekends.
Apply on JLP Jobs – the official careers website for John Lewis Partnership, John Lewis & Partners, and Waitrose & Partners.
About the role
Our Catering Assistants in our John Lewis shops work in customer restaurants or behind-the-scenes in Partner (employee) dining rooms. You will offer excellent customer service, ensuring a positive catering experience by maintaining food preparation and presentation standards. You will also support tasks such as stock replenishment and storage of deliveries. Catering Partners enjoy free food on working days, with no split shifts or late evenings.
Key Responsibilities
- Work as a team to ensure smooth catering service.
- Provide positive customer and Partner interactions with a friendly attitude, acting as an ambassador for the John Lewis brand.
- Follow health and safety procedures, including Food Safety Act compliance.
- Replenish stock to ensure availability for customers.
- Reduce food wastage through careful stock rotation.
- Resolve operational issues promptly using your initiative.
- Maintain personal hygiene standards.
Essential skills/experience
- Flexibility to work across the Catering team and ensure smooth operations.
- Passion for food and high standards in hygiene and cleanliness.
Desirable skills/experience
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.
- Teamwork and excellent customer service skills.
- Experience in a kitchen or catering environment.
Part-time hours (15 hours) across seven days, including weekends, with start times from 08:00 to 18:00.
The partnership
We’re the UK’s largest employee-owned business, home to John Lewis and Waitrose. We’re committed to building a happier world, innovating and diversifying while maintaining our focus on price, quality, and service. As Partners, we share ownership, contribute to success, and foster an environment of kindness, respect, and inclusion. We believe in growing individually and collectively, creating a workplace where everyone can thrive. We are committed to flexible working arrangements and work-life balance.
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Catering Assistant employer: John Lewis & Partners
Contact Detail:
John Lewis & Partners Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the John Lewis brand and its values. Understanding their commitment to customer service and quality will help you align your approach during interviews and interactions.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in catering or customer service roles when networking. Engaging with current employees on platforms like LinkedIn can provide insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss how you handle fast-paced environments and teamwork. Think of specific examples from past experiences that demonstrate your ability to thrive under pressure and collaborate effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your passion for food and hygiene standards during conversations. Being able to articulate why these aspects are important to you can set you apart as a candidate who truly cares about the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Catering Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read through the job description carefully to understand the key responsibilities and essential skills required for the Catering Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Craft a Strong CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant experience in catering or customer service. Use bullet points to make it easy to read, and include specific examples of how you've demonstrated teamwork and high hygiene standards.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for food and customer service. Mention why you want to work for John Lewis Partnership specifically and how you can contribute to their values of kindness, respect, and inclusion.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at John Lewis & Partners
✨Show Your Passion for Food
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for food and catering during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or personal stories that highlight your love for food, as this aligns with the company's values and the role's requirements.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Since the role involves working closely with a team, be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous jobs. Highlight your ability to support colleagues and contribute to a positive work environment.
✨Understand Health and Safety Standards
Familiarise yourself with basic health and safety procedures, particularly those related to food handling and hygiene. Being able to discuss these standards confidently will show that you take the role seriously and are committed to maintaining high standards.
✨Prepare for Customer Interaction Scenarios
Think about potential customer service scenarios you might encounter in the role. Be ready to share how you would handle difficult situations or ensure a positive experience for customers, demonstrating your problem-solving skills and friendly attitude.
