At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Catering Assistant, serving customers and ensuring top-notch food presentation.
- Company: Be part of the UK's largest employee-owned business, John Lewis Partnership.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals on workdays and flexible working arrangements.
- Other info: Varied hours available, with no late shifts or split shifts.
- Why this job: Experience a vibrant work culture while making a difference in customer service.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed, just a passion for food and teamwork.
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. The role can be fast-paced, but by taking pride in food preparation and presentation standards, you\'ll ensure the best catering experience. You will also support other catering tasks, including stock replenishment and storage of deliveries. Catering Partners enjoy free food in our dining rooms on working days, and as the role is 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 related to \'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 and high standards in food prep, hygiene, and cleanliness.
Desirable skills/experience
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.
- Teamwork.
- Excellent customer service skills.
- Experience in a kitchen or catering environment.
Hours are varied, up to 37.5 hours per week, across seven days, including early starts, late finishes, evenings, and weekends, between 08:00 - 18:00.
The partnership
We’re the largest employee-owned business in the UK, home to John Lewis and Waitrose. As Partners, we share ownership, responsibility, and rewards, working together to build a better future. We focus on being brilliant at retail, continuously innovating and diversifying, and committed to price, quality, and service excellence.
We embrace diversity and create an environment where everyone can thrive, grow individually and collectively, and feel they belong. As Partners, we make a difference, and we own it.
Important points to note:
- Some roles may require pre-employment vetting, including DBS checks, which will be communicated during recruitment.
- Apply early as vacancies can close quickly due to high application volumes.
- We support flexible working arrangements, including flexible or compressed hours, job sharing, or shorter contracts. Discuss options during your interview.
Catering Assistant in Cardiff employer: John Lewis Partnership
At John Lewis Partnership, we pride ourselves on being the largest employee-owned business in the UK, offering a unique work culture where every Partner shares in the ownership and success of the company. As a Catering Assistant, you will enjoy benefits such as free meals during shifts, a supportive team environment, and opportunities for personal growth within a diverse and inclusive workplace. With no split shifts or late evenings, our flexible working arrangements ensure a healthy work-life balance while you contribute to delivering exceptional customer service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Assistant in Cardiff
✨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 responses during interviews, showcasing that you're a great fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in fast-paced environments, especially in catering or food service. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've handled busy situations while maintaining high standards of service.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your passion for food and customer service during your interactions with the hiring team. Share your enthusiasm for working in a catering role and how you can contribute to creating a positive dining experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your flexibility and teamwork skills. Since the role requires working across various shifts and collaborating with others, showing that you're adaptable and a team player will make you stand out.
We think you need these skills to ace Catering Assistant in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read 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, flexibility, and attention to detail you've demonstrated in previous roles.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your passion for food and customer service. Mention specific examples of how you've provided excellent service in the past 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.
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 ability to work as part of a team. Share examples from previous experiences where you collaborated effectively with colleagues to achieve a common goal.
✨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 Fast-Paced Scenarios
The catering environment can be fast-paced, so be ready to discuss how you handle pressure. Think of situations where you successfully managed multiple tasks at once and how you prioritised your responsibilities to maintain service quality.
