At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop catering operations, creating innovative menus for events and managing kitchen staff.
- Company: Join Leicestershire County Council at Beaumanor Hall and Tithe Barn.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and a chance to inspire a dedicated team.
- Other info: Open to flexible working arrangements and committed to inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in a thriving hospitality environment while showcasing your culinary creativity.
- Qualifications: Intermediate/Advanced Food Hygiene Certificate and experience in budget management and staff supervision.
The predicted salary is between 32070 - 34359 £ per year.
Organisation: Leicestershire County Council
Work Location: Beaumanor Hall, LE12 8TX & Tithe Barn, CV13 0AD
Salary: £32,070 - £34,359 per annum (pro rata for part-time)
Pay award pending
Working Hours: 18.5 Hours per week
Contract Type: Fixed term for 18 months
Closing Date: 25th Aug 2026
Interview Date(s): TBC
We are seeking to recruit an experienced and motivated Head Chef to lead and develop our catering operations at Beaumanor Hall and Tithe Barn. This is a pivotal role within the service, responsible for driving high standards of food quality, customer satisfaction, team performance and commercial success.
About the Role
The successful candidate will bring creativity, leadership and a passion for exceptional food, developing innovative menus for weddings, events, hospitality functions and educational catering whilst ensuring the efficient day-to-day management of kitchen operations. Managing a team of chefs and kitchen staff, the Head Chef will play a key role in maintaining excellent food safety and hygiene standards, controlling costs, managing stock and suppliers, and delivering a first-class customer experience. This is an excellent opportunity for a talented culinary professional looking to make a significant impact within a thriving hospitality and events environment while developing and inspiring a dedicated team to achieve excellence.
About You
- To apply for this post, you must have an Intermediate/Advanced Level Food Hygiene Certificate
- City and Guild 706 1 / 2 / 3 or NVQ 3 HNC or equivalent experience
- Good working knowledge of Health and Safety Procedure
- Good working knowledge of current food trends and special dietary requirements
- Strong communication and staff motivation skills
- Proven experience in Budget Management, Supervising Staff, Developing Staff rotas, Sourcing and purchasing supplies
- Experience of working in a commercial and similar environment
- Capable of meeting targets under pressure
- Providing high quality civic and event catering to planned menus
In addition, we also expect you to share our commitment to our values and to delivering accessible and inclusive services which meet the needs of all of our residents. You will be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these commitments as part of the selection process. Reasonable adjustments will be considered for applicants with a disability. We are a Disability Confident Employer.
Interested in Flexible Working? We are open to discussions about flexible working, which may include part time working, job sharing, term-time working, flexible start and finish times, and hybrid working, depending on the requirements of the role and the service. If you would like to discuss the possible flexible working options that might be applicable to this role, please contact the person named below.
For more information or an informal discussion, please contact: Nathan Brown - Hospitality & Leisure Manager Telephone: 01509 890119 Email: nathan.brown@leics.gov.uk
Head Chef in Loughborough employer: Leicestershire County Council
Leicestershire County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at County Hall in Glenfield, Leicester. With a strong commitment to employee growth and development, we provide opportunities for meaningful contributions to the community, particularly in supporting children and young people with additional needs. Our inclusive work culture promotes flexibility, collaboration, and innovation, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a real difference in education and inclusion.
Contact Details:
Leicestershire County Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Loughborough
✨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 Leicestershire County Council. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Leicestershire County Council
Don't be shy about reaching out to Leicestershire County Council 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 Head Chef in Loughborough
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 Leicestershire County Council 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 Leicestershire County Council
✨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!
