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- Tasks: Join our team to deliver exceptional catering service and food preparation.
- Company: Be part of the UK's largest employee-owned business, John Lewis Partnership.
- Benefits: Enjoy free food on workdays and flexible working arrangements.
- Why this job: Experience a supportive culture where your contributions truly matter.
- Qualifications: Passion for food and a keen eye for detail are essential.
- Other info: No split shifts or late evenings; varied hours available.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
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 either customer restaurants or behind-the-scenes in Partner (employee) dining rooms. You will offer the great customer service we\’re known for, ensuring a positive catering experience through food preparation and presentation standards. You will also support with catering tasks such as stock replenishment and storage of deliveries. Catering Partners enjoy free food on working days, and as they are based in shops, there are no split shifts or late evening work.
Key Responsibilities
- Work as a team to ensure smooth catering service.
- Provide positive customer and Partner interactions with a friendly and welcoming attitude, acting as an ambassador for the John Lewis brand.
- Follow procedures and instructions in line with the \’Health and Safety at Work Act\’ and \’Food Safety Act\’.
- Ensure stock is replenished and available for customers.
- Reduce food wastage by careful stock rotation.
- Act promptly and use initiative to resolve operational issues.
- Maintain personal hygiene standards.
Essential skills/experience
- Flexibility to work across the Catering team and use initiative for smooth operations.
- Passion for food.
- Keen eye for detail, high standards in food preparation, hygiene, and cleanliness.
Desirable skills/experience
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.
- Teamwork skills.
- Excellent customer service skills.
- Experience in a kitchen or catering environment.
Varied hours of full-time work (37.5 hours) across seven days, including early starts, late finishes, evenings, and weekends.
The partnership
We’re the largest employee-owned business in the UK, home to John Lewis and Waitrose. We’re committed to building a happier world. As Partners, we share ownership and responsibility, contributing to our success through collaboration, kindness, and respect. We embrace diversity and foster an environment where everyone can thrive, growing individually and collectively. As Partners, we make a difference and own it.
Important points to note:
- Some roles require pre-employment vetting, including DBS checks if applicable. You will be informed during recruitment and encouraged to complete necessary documents promptly.
- Vacancies may close early due to high applicant numbers.
- We support flexible working arrangements such as flexible hours, job sharing, or shorter contracts. Discuss options with the hiring manager during your interview.
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Catering Assistant employer: John Lewis Partnership
Contact Detail:
John Lewis Partnership 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 teamwork will help you align your responses during interviews, showcasing how you can embody their ethos.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in catering or food service roles. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've maintained high standards in food preparation and hygiene, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Think of instances where you've successfully adapted to changing situations or worked effectively as part of a team.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your passion for food during the interview. Discuss your favourite dishes, cooking experiences, or any relevant hobbies that reflect your enthusiasm for the catering industry, making you a memorable candidate.
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. Emphasise any teamwork skills, flexibility, and attention to detail that you possess, as these are crucial for this role.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for food and customer service. Mention specific examples of how you've demonstrated excellent service in previous roles and how you can contribute to the John Lewis brand.
Follow Application Instructions: Make sure to apply through the JLP Jobs website as specified. Double-check that all required documents are included and that your application is submitted before the deadline to avoid missing out on this opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at John Lewis Partnership
✨Show Your Passion for Food
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for food during the interview. Talk about your favourite dishes, any cooking experiences you have, and why you enjoy working in a catering environment. This will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Emphasise Teamwork Skills
Since the role involves working closely with others, highlight your teamwork abilities. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with colleagues in previous jobs or projects, showcasing your ability to contribute positively to a team.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Catering requires a keen eye for detail, especially in food preparation and hygiene. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure high standards in your work and provide specific examples of how you've maintained cleanliness and organisation in past roles.
✨Prepare for Customer Interaction Scenarios
As customer service is a key part of the role, think about potential scenarios you might face while interacting with customers. Practice responses that reflect a friendly and welcoming attitude, as well as how you would handle difficult situations professionally.