At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering team and create delicious, healthy meals for students.
- Company: Join Lexington, a specialist catering company focused on nourishing young minds.
- Benefits: Enjoy free lunches, flexible hours, term-time holidays, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a creative, inclusive workplace that values talent and diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives through your culinary skills and leadership.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in catering with at least 2 years as Head Chef or Sous Chef.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We’re a specialist catering company dedicated to providing delicious, healthy and exciting food for Independent Schools. We know the crucial role that food can play on a pupil’s ability to learn, develop and ultimately flourish. Food isn’t simply fuel, it’s critical to creating happy, healthy and inquisitive young minds. Lexington is committed to safeguarding children and colleagues. Candidates that are shortlisted for this role will be required to have an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, including Children's Barred List.
What you’ll be doing… As a Head Chef you will be proactively managing and supporting a catering team as well as creating a platform for financial growth through cost control and culinary excellence.
- Recruiting, training, supporting and people development to deliver an efficient, high quality service to Elior UK, customer and client
- Maintaining, ordering and controlling food stocks within budget
- Ensuring ongoing team communications, including building internal and external relationships, management reporting and client liaison to enable operational excellence
- Accountable for COSHH, Food Safety, H&S, legal regulations, environmental policies and duty of care to customer and colleagues
What can you bring? In this role:
- Proven leadership ability with a proactive, hands-on approach
- Genuine interest in customer service excellence
- Focused on the front line
- Catering experience essential with chef skills
- 2 years experience as Head Chef or Sous Chef ready for their next step
Working Pattern: 40 hours p/w Term Time only
Our way of saying thank you… At Lexington, we strive to ensure that our colleagues feel appreciated & rewarded, which is why we offer generous rewards & benefits in exchange for your dedicated efforts.
- FREE On-Site Lunches: Savour delicious and healthy meals, on us, every day at work
- Flexible Working: Enjoy the freedom to balance work and personal life with our flexible working hours
- Term Time Holidays: Offering you flexibility
- Family Leave: Prioritise your family commitments with our family leave options designed to support you during important times
- Paid Charity Leave: Make a difference in your community with paid time off to volunteer for your favourite causes
- Opportunities for Career Progression: Grow and advance your career with us, supported by continuous learning and development opportunities
- Comprehensive Wellbeing Benefits: Access mental health support and a range of wellbeing benefits to keep you feeling your best, both professionally and personally
- Life Assurance & Pension Schemes: Secure your future with our life assurance and workplace pension schemes
- Exclusive Discounts & Perks: Enjoy discounts and cashback on entertainment, leisure activities, and much more, alongside our popular cycle-to-work scheme
Why it’s great to work for us At Lexington, we dare to be different in our food, catering, reception services, and work culture. Our values encourage creativity, boldness, and fun, fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We nurture talent, helping our people thrive and reach their potential. We take pride in being an equal opportunity employer and welcome everyone. Let us know if you need any reasonable adjustments or assistance in your application, and feel free to share your pronouns. Join our award-winning team passionate about serving delicious food to exceptional clients in London. Visit our website to hear from our team first-hand.
Interested? Click the ‘Apply now’
Locations
Head Chef - Hindhead, Surrey employer: Lexington-Catering
At Lexington, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values creativity and inclusivity. As a Head Chef in Hindhead, Surrey, you will enjoy generous benefits such as free on-site lunches, flexible working hours, and opportunities for career progression, all while making a meaningful impact on the lives of young learners through our commitment to healthy and delicious food. Join us in fostering a supportive environment where your culinary talents can flourish and contribute to the well-being of our community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Hindhead, Surrey
✨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 Lexington-Catering. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Lexington-Catering
Don't be shy about reaching out to Lexington-Catering 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 - Hindhead, Surrey
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 Lexington-Catering 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 Lexington-Catering
✨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!
