At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a culinary team to create exceptional dining experiences and ensure food safety.
- Company: Join MACK, a leader in sustainable accommodation and catering services.
- Benefits: Earn £15.50 per hour, enjoy free food, and benefit from free parking.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for training and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by delivering high-quality meals in diverse environments.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 15.5 - 15.5 £ per hour.
MACK is a property management company that has the vision to be the leading force in providing a diverse range of safe, inclusive, and sustainable accommodation for all.
To support our accommodation services, we also operate nationwide, delivering high quality catering and laundry services.
Our catering provision is built around delivering fresh, nutritious, and high-quality food services across a diverse range of sites.
We pride ourselves on operational excellence, strong client partnerships, and a commitment to compliance and sustainability.
Whether supporting accommodation, education, healthcare, or commercial environments, our catering teams are passionate about creating positive experiences that reflect our values and meet the needs of every community we serve.
*As the Head Chef, you will lead our culinary team in delivering exceptional dining experiences while ensuring the highest standards of food safety and quality.
Reporting to the Restaurant Manager, with a Level 3 in Professional Cookery and strong leadership skills, you will foster a collaborative environment, oversee food production, and implement HACCP protocols.
Join us to elevate our culinary offerings and drive the success of our restaurant through innovative cuisine and effective team leadership.
*Oversee the preparation and cooking of large volumes of food while maintaining consistency, portion control, and quality standards, ensure food presentation and taste meet company expectations.
- Lead, motivate, and manage a team of chefs, kitchen assistants, and porters.
Provide on-the-job training to ensure staff follow procedures and maintain high standards of food safety and hygiene.
- Monitor stock levels, forecast usage, and manage ordering to reduce waste and control costs.
- Ensure full compliance with food safety legislation, HACCP protocols, and company policies. Conduct regular kitchen audits and risk assessments.
- Ensure all allergen information is up to date and that special diets (e. g. gluten-free, halal, vegan) are catered for safely.
- Liaise with catering managers, clients, and service staff to coordinate service delivery.
Ensure kitchen equipment is maintained and serviced.
Report faults and oversee cleanliness and organisation of the kitchen.
*NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery (or equivalent) · Level 3 Food Safety & Hygiene Certification (essential) refresher training will be given.
- Allergen Awareness Training
- Relevant Health & Safety training (e. g.
- COSHH, manual handling)
- Culinary or hospitality management qualification (desirable) *Sound knowledge of stock control, portioning, and waste reduction
- Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a bulk or volume catering environment (e. g. hospitals, schools, prisons, large-scale events, care homes, or contract catering) * Strong background in high-volume food production and multi-site or central kitchen operations
- Demonstrable experience in menu planning, cost control, stock management, and team leadership
- Experience managing and training kitchen brigades
- Track record of maintaining food safety standards and achieving high inspection results
- This role is working 40 hours per week, over 5 days per week including weekends.
- *Working
Conditions:* The position requires standing for long periods, bending, lifting, and maintaining a fast-paced environment while ensuring that food safety and cleanliness are upheld at all times.
*Due to legal working hour restrictions, we are unable to consider applicants who are not permitted to work these hours under UK immigration rules.
- Stand up for safety every day
- Embrace the power and opportunity of diversity
- Generate options to maximise sustainability
- Pay: £15.50 per hour
- Discounted or free food
- Free parking
Do you currently have the legal right to work the full contracted hours for this role without restriction (e. g. not limited to 20 hours per week)?
Head Chef - Education Catering in Westhill employer: Mack Residential LTD
MACK is an exceptional employer that prioritises operational excellence and sustainability, making it a fantastic place for culinary professionals to thrive. As the Head Chef, you will benefit from a supportive work culture that values collaboration and innovation, alongside opportunities for professional growth through on-the-job training and development. With competitive pay, free parking, and discounted meals, MACK ensures that its employees feel valued and motivated while delivering high-quality catering services across diverse environments.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Education Catering in Westhill
✨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 Mack Residential LTD. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Mack Residential LTD
Don't be shy about reaching out to Mack Residential LTD 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 - Education Catering in Westhill
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 Mack Residential LTD 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 Mack Residential LTD
✨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!
