Head Chef - Newmarket Racecourses
Head Chef - Newmarket Racecourses

Head Chef - Newmarket Racecourses

Newmarket Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a dynamic culinary team to create exceptional dining experiences at exciting events.
  • Company: Join Levy UK & Ireland, a vibrant leader in hospitality and part of Compass Group.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, healthcare, 23 days' leave, and fun perks.
  • Why this job: Be part of thrilling race days and major events while showcasing your culinary creativity.
  • Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef in large-scale events and a passion for fine dining.
  • Other info: Flexible shifts, supportive team, and opportunities for career growth await you!

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

This exciting Head Chef role is a varied, fast-paced, and highly rewarding position that offers breadth and challenge beyond traditional hospitality. This role leads the culinary team for race days, events, and functions, driving exceptional food quality, presentation, and guest satisfaction.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the culinary team in delivering exceptional food quality and presentation for race days, events, and functions.
  • Oversee daily kitchen operations including planning, preparation, production, and service.
  • Ensure compliance with all food hygiene, health and safety, and allergen management protocols.
  • Champion training and development within the kitchen team—supporting junior chefs and creating a culture of growth and accountability.
  • Collaborate with front-of-house and planning teams to ensure seamless service and guest satisfaction.
  • Drive menu innovation and support in cost control, ordering, and stock management.
  • Maintain high morale and a positive working atmosphere within the team.
  • Represent Levy and Newmarket Racecourses values: excellence, teamwork, and professionalism.

Qualifications

  • Proven experience in a Head Chef role within large-scale events, hospitality, banqueting and fine dining.
  • Passion for food, creativity, and delivering a legendary dining experience.
  • Fine dining experience—essential for creating menus for VIP clients and restaurants, including building our own recipes.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
  • Solid knowledge of food safety legislation and procedures.
  • A proactive and solutions-driven mindset, with the ability to adapt in a fast-paced environment.
  • Computer literacy, ideally with restaurant/bar software experience.

Salary and Benefits

  • £45,000 + excellent benefits including healthcare, wellbeing support, 23 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, life assurance, meals on duty, and more.
  • Competitive salary with discretionary Christmas bonus and full company benefits.
  • 23 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, your birthday off, and a holiday purchase scheme.
  • Healthcare & wellbeing: Aviva Digicare, Medicash (dental, optical, therapy treatments).
  • Mental health support: 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
  • Family benefits: Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave; additional leave after returning from maternity leave; day off for baby’s first birthday; enhanced family leave.
  • Perks & discounts: Shopping, entertainment, and travel discounts; 20% off Nuffield Health and 10% off PureGym memberships.
  • Financial wellbeing: Pension scheme, Life Assurance, preferred rates on salary finance products.
  • Development opportunities: Professional subscriptions, ongoing training, and structured career pathways.
  • Meals on duty included; Free on-site parking.
  • Opportunity to work across major sporting and hospitality events nationwide.
  • A fun and supportive team with flexible shift options.

About Us

Levy UK & Ireland is part of Compass Group, the world's largest catering company, and a vibrant leader in hospitality. We celebrate individuality and build inclusive teams where everyone belongs. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join us in creating a supportive, empowering workplace where everyone can thrive. We create unforgettable experiences and shape the future of hospitality.

Head Chef - Newmarket Racecourses employer: Levy Uk + Ireland

Levy UK & Ireland, part of Compass Group, offers an exceptional work environment for the Head Chef role at Newmarket Racecourses, where culinary creativity meets a vibrant hospitality culture. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, comprehensive healthcare, and generous leave policies, alongside opportunities for professional growth and development within a supportive team atmosphere. With a focus on excellence and teamwork, this role not only promises a rewarding career but also the chance to be part of major sporting events, making every day unique and fulfilling.
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Contact Detail:

Levy Uk + Ireland Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Newmarket Racecourses

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend culinary events, join local chef groups, or even hit up social media platforms to find opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a Head Chef position!

✨Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! If you can, create a portfolio of your best dishes or even host a tasting event. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table—literally! Plus, it’s a great way to demonstrate your creativity and passion for food.

✨Tip Number 3

Don’t just apply—engage! When you find a job listing that excites you, reach out directly to the hiring manager or team. A quick email expressing your enthusiasm can set you apart from the crowd. And remember, we love seeing applications through our website!

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare for the interview like it’s a cooking competition! Research the company, understand their values, and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their culinary vision. Bring your A-game and show them why you’re the perfect fit for the Head Chef role!

We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef - Newmarket Racecourses

Culinary Leadership
Food Quality Management
Menu Innovation
Food Hygiene Compliance
Health and Safety Knowledge
Allergen Management
Training and Development
Communication Skills
Organisational Skills
Creativity in Menu Design
Proactive Problem-Solving
Adaptability in Fast-Paced Environments
Computer Literacy
Team Morale Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion for Food: When writing your application, let your love for food shine through! Share your culinary journey and what inspires you to create exceptional dining experiences. We want to see your creativity and passion reflected in your words.

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience in large-scale events and fine dining. We’re looking for someone who can lead a team and deliver top-notch quality, so be specific about how your background aligns with our needs.

Highlight Leadership Skills: As a Head Chef, strong leadership is key! In your application, emphasise your experience in training and developing kitchen teams. We want to know how you've fostered a positive working atmosphere and driven team morale in past roles.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!

How to prepare for a job interview at Levy Uk + Ireland

✨Know Your Menu Inside Out

Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with the types of dishes and menus that the company typically offers. Be ready to discuss your own ideas for menu innovation and how you can elevate their culinary experience.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a Head Chef, strong leadership is key. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a kitchen team in the past, focusing on training, morale, and collaboration. Highlight any specific challenges you overcame and how you fostered a positive working atmosphere.

✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Food Safety

Brush up on food hygiene legislation and allergen management protocols. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure compliance in your kitchen and how you handle food safety issues, as this will show your commitment to maintaining high standards.

✨Be Ready for a Practical Assessment

Given the nature of the role, you might be asked to demonstrate your cooking skills or create a dish on the spot. Practice your techniques and be ready to showcase your creativity and presentation skills under pressure.

Head Chef - Newmarket Racecourses
Levy Uk + Ireland
Location: Newmarket

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