At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a high-performance kitchen team to prepare meals for elite athletes.
- Company: Dynamic football club with a focus on nutrition and player performance.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience in a professional kitchen and travel with the team.
- Other info: Full-time role with flexible hours, including match days and travel.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting environment that fuels top athletes' performance.
- Qualifications: Positive attitude, willingness to learn, and a valid food hygiene certificate.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
We are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic Chef de Partie to join our First Team catering operation. While professional kitchen experience is welcome, it is not essential - what matters most is the right attitude, a genuine eagerness to learn, and the ability to conduct yourself with professionalism and discretion in a first team environment. Working as part of a high-performance kitchen team, you will play a key role in preparing and delivering nutritionally optimised meals for first team players and staff at the training ground and across all competitive fixtures - home and away.
Key Responsibilities
- Training Ground
- Prepare and deliver daily breakfast, lunch, and recovery meals for first team players and coaching staff.
- Manage your section with full ownership of prep, service, and clean-down to the highest standards of hygiene and quality.
- Work closely with the Head Chef and club nutritionist to design and execute menus aligned with player performance and recovery needs.
- Maintain accurate stock records, assist with ordering, and minimise waste on your section.
- Match Days - Home Fixtures
- Lead preparation and service of pre-match, half-time, and post-match meals for players.
- Coordinate with the wider kitchen team to ensure precise timing around kick-off schedules.
- Ensure all food meets the nutritional standards and portion specifications set by the performance team.
- Away Fixtures
- Travel with the first team squad to all away fixtures.
- Liaise with hotel and venue kitchens in advance to confirm facilities, equipment, and dietary requirements.
- Pack and transport specialist ingredients, equipment, and supplements as directed.
- Prepare and deliver pre-match and recovery meals on the road, adapting to variable kitchen environments while maintaining consistent standards.
- Represent the club professionally at all times when working in third-party venues.
Person Specification
- Essential
- A positive, can-do attitude and genuine enthusiasm for the role.
- Willingness to learn and take direction from the Head Chef and performance team.
- Professionalism and discretion when working in a first team environment - the ability to build trust with players and staff is paramount.
- Full, clean UK driving licence.
- Valid food hygiene certificate (Level 2 minimum), or willingness to obtain one before starting.
- Ability and willingness to travel extensively, including overnight stays and weekends.
- Flexibility to work irregular hours including early mornings, evenings, and match days.
- Strong work ethic and the ability to stay calm and organised under pressure.
- Excellent personal hygiene and commitment to food safety standards.
- Desirable
- NVQ Level 2 / City & Guilds qualification in Professional Cookery (or equivalent).
- Any professional kitchen experience, whether in hospitality, catering, or sport.
- Knowledge of sports nutrition or experience cooking to dietary and performance briefs.
- Knowledge of allergen management and experience catering for diverse dietary requirements (halal, vegan, gluten-free, etc.).
- A genuine interest in professional football and elite athlete performance.
Additional Requirements
- This is a full time role, including all first team fixtures, both home and away. This is a non-negotiable requirement of the role.
- This role requires a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check.
First Team Chef (CDP) in Luton employer: Luton Town Football Club
Luton Town FC Community Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where employees can make a meaningful impact in the local community. With a strong focus on professional development, the Trust provides opportunities for growth and learning while fostering a supportive and inclusive culture. Located in Luton, this role not only allows you to contribute to vital community initiatives but also to be part of a passionate team dedicated to delivering high-quality services and support.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land First Team Chef (CDP) in Luton
✨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 Luton Town Football Club. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Luton Town Football Club
Don't be shy about reaching out to Luton Town Football Club 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 First Team Chef (CDP) in Luton
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 Luton Town Football Club 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 Luton Town Football Club
✨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!
