At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering team to deliver exceptional dining experiences.
- Company: Join a vibrant team at Bracknell Campus, focused on development and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, full chef whites, and competitive salary with career growth.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for training and advancement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in hospitality while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Supervisory experience in catering and a passion for food service.
As a Catering Assistant Team Leader, you will oversee the running of the catering operation across Bracknell Campus and support a team of Catering Assistants. You will work alongside the catering management team to deliver an exceptional dining experience for all who use the facility and help create a culture of development and inclusion within the catering team.
Salary: £28,400 – £38,600
Contract type: Permanent
Working pattern: Full‑time, Mon–Fri 07:00–15:00 (with on‑call Duty Manager rota approximately every 6 weeks, covering Bank Holidays and festive periods). Night premium of £4.25 per hour applies to any time worked between 22:00 and 06:00. On‑call duties begin after a successful three‑month probation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and supervise a busy catering brigade to deliver market‑leading customer service. You will act as a "Critical Friend," challenging poor performance and mentoring your team to achieve their best.
- Ensure the seamless delivery of the Partner Dining Room and function services, maintaining impeccable standards of product presentation and cleanliness.
- Drive sales and manage food and sundry costs. Identify opportunities for continuous improvement and greater efficiency within the catering operation.
- Take ownership of catering administration, including stock control, wastage recording and staffing requirements to ensure a profitable and efficient section.
- Supervise and deliver all due diligence checks, ensuring 100% compliance with Waitrose Food Hygiene and Health & Safety policies at all times.
- Take accountability for the wider site during on‑call periods, responding to operational needs outside of standard catering hours.
Benefits of the Role:
- Full Chef Whites and safety shoes provided.
- Free meals whilst on duty.
Essential Skills & Experience:
- Minimum one year of supervisory experience in catering teams or kitchen brigades.
- Experience working with all food types and a genuine passion for hospitality.
- Strong commercial awareness of sales, stock and wastage management to protect the bottom line.
- Leadership qualities: ability to lead by example, foster trust and remain flexible to support other departments.
- IT literacy: proficient computer skills for administrative tasks and ordering systems.
Desirable Skills & Experience:
- Food Safety Level 3 (Intermediate) qualification (training provided within the first 3 months if not already held).
- Experience working in a high‑pressure, customer‑facing selling or service environment.
- Previous experience in a dedicated administration or logistics function.
Location: Bracknell Campus, Doncastle Road, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 8YA
Closing Date: 1 July 2026
Team Leader, Food Service in Bracknell employer: John Lewis plc
As a Team Leader in Food Service at Bracknell Campus, you will be part of a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee development and exceptional customer service. With competitive salaries, free meals during shifts, and opportunities for continuous improvement, this role offers a rewarding environment where your leadership can truly make a difference. Join us to lead a dedicated team and enjoy the benefits of working in a supportive setting that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Team Leader, Food Service in Bracknell
✨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 John Lewis plc. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to John Lewis plc
Don't be shy about reaching out to John Lewis plc 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 Team Leader, Food Service in Bracknell
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 John Lewis plc 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 John Lewis plc
✨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!
