Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering team to create nutritious meals for students.
- Company: Join Lexington Independents, dedicated to providing high-quality food in education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young people's wellbeing through innovative culinary practices.
- Qualifications: Must have 2+ years as an Executive Chef or Head Chef with strong leadership skills.
- Other info: DBS check required; commitment to safeguarding children and colleagues is essential.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This role based at Paddington Academy, United Learning's flagship school sits within our Education division – catering for students. Dedicated to providing high-quality, nutritious, fresh, and sustainable food for our younger generation, we're 100% committed to supporting a healthy diet. At Lexington Independents, we're driven by the knowledge that young people deserve and need the best food for their wellbeing; we do food with a difference. 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, and two suitable references.
What you’ll be doing…
- Proactively managing and supporting a large catering team (15+) 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 Lexington, customer and client.
- Maintaining, ordering and controlling food stocks within budget.
- Menu writing, innovation and ideas that appeal to the clientele.
- 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?
- 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 Executive Chef or Head Chef ready for their next step.
Executive Chef employer: Lexington Independents
Contact Detail:
Lexington Independents Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the catering and education sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with people who can provide insights about the role and potentially refer you.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing your experience managing teams in previous roles. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've developed staff and improved service quality.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with current trends in nutritious and sustainable food options for schools. Being knowledgeable about these topics will demonstrate your commitment to the role and align with the values of Lexington Independents.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to menu innovation and cost control. Have a few ideas ready that reflect your culinary creativity while also considering budget constraints, as this is crucial for the Executive Chef position.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in catering and leadership. Emphasise your skills in managing a team, menu writing, and cost control, as these are crucial for the Executive Chef role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for providing nutritious food for young people. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams and improved service quality in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, focus on your catering experience and any previous roles as an Executive Chef or Head Chef. Include details about your approach to food safety, health regulations, and team development.
Prepare for DBS Check: Since this role requires an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, be ready to provide necessary information and references. Mention your commitment to safeguarding children and colleagues in your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lexington Independents
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Executive Chef, you'll be managing a large team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Highlight any training or mentoring experiences you've had.
✨Demonstrate Your Culinary Expertise
Expect questions about your culinary skills and experience. Bring along a portfolio of your menu creations or any innovative dishes you've developed. This will help illustrate your creativity and ability to cater to diverse clientele.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
Lexington values high-quality, nutritious food. Be ready to talk about your approach to sourcing ingredients sustainably and how you ensure food safety and quality in your kitchen operations.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
You may be asked how you would handle specific challenges, such as managing food costs or dealing with dietary restrictions. Think through potential scenarios and how you would address them effectively.
