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- Tasks: Lead and inspire a culinary team to create outstanding food at Whipsnade Zoo.
- Company: Join Compass Group UK&I, a leader in hospitality and employee dining.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, wellness classes, travel discounts, and cash rewards.
- Why this job: This role offers work-life balance, creativity, and the chance to shape your team.
- Qualifications: Looking for an innovative chef with excellent leadership and communication skills.
- Other info: Daytime shifts ensure a good work-life balance.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We ensure you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:
- Free meals
- Onsite free car parking
- Contributory pension scheme
- Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
- Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits
- Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more
- Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and many more
- Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster
- Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands
- Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes
- You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families
This is a fantastic role for a natural leader to inspire an amazing food offer and have the autonomy to build and mould their own team at Whipsnade Zoo.
What you'll be doing:
- The Head Chef will plan, organise and direct the preparation and cooking of food ensuring that the company's reputation for quality is enhanced with customers and clients at all times.
- Taking responsibility for the food production with a hands-on approach.
- Driving sales through centrally driven menu planning and promotions and preferred suppliers.
- Responsible for all aspects of food safety, HS and COSHH.
- The Head Chef will also be required to implement and maintain food monitoring procedures to facilitate budgetary control and to monitor all costs involved in the kitchen against agreed budgets.
Who you are:
- Able to lead & manage a team in a calm, inspirational manner.
- Excellent and Innovative Chef with good presentation skills.
- Excellent Communication and Interpersonal skills.
- Energetic with a passion to do a great job.
- A forward-thinker who can prevent wastage.
- Demonstrates a passion for food.
- Team Player.
- Excellent organisation skills.
- Numerate and computer literate with an understanding of financial drivers.
About Us:
Part of Compass Group UK&I, Restaurant Associates provides brilliant hospitality through our food, drink and services. We work with our partners and collaborate with our clients to achieve great things together. Every day, our teams of passionate hospitality professionals strive for excellence in delivering employee dining and hospitality to some of the UK's leading workplaces as well as inspiring exceptional experiences in iconic cultural and heritage destinations.
Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!
Executive Head Chef employer: RA Venues
Contact Detail:
RA Venues Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Head Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Showcase your leadership skills during the interview. As an Executive Head Chef, you'll need to inspire and manage a team effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a kitchen team in the past, focusing on your ability to motivate and develop others.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in sustainable and plant-focused cuisine. Since the role emphasises fresh and sustainable menus, being able to discuss innovative ideas and how you can implement them will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with food safety and budget management. The role requires a hands-on approach to food production and cost control, so be ready to share specific instances where you've successfully managed these aspects in previous positions.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the culinary field. Attend industry events or join online forums to connect with others who may have insights about the company or the role. This can provide you with valuable information and potentially a referral when applying through our website.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Head Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your culinary experience, leadership skills, and any relevant achievements. Focus on your ability to manage a team and create innovative menus, as these are key aspects of the Executive Head Chef role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for food and hospitality. Mention specific examples of how you've led teams and improved food quality in previous roles. Show enthusiasm for the opportunity at Whipsnade Zoo and how you can contribute to their mission.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as your ability to manage food safety and budgetary controls. These skills are crucial for the role and should be clearly outlined in both your CV and cover letter.
Showcase Your Creativity: As an Executive Head Chef, creativity is vital. Include examples of innovative dishes or menu concepts you've developed in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to inspire your culinary team and enhance the dining experience for customers.
How to prepare for a job interview at RA Venues
✨Showcase Your Culinary Passion
As an Executive Head Chef, your love for food and cooking should shine through. Be prepared to discuss your culinary journey, favourite dishes, and how you stay updated with food trends. This will demonstrate your genuine enthusiasm for the role.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership abilities. Share examples of how you've successfully led a team in the past, managed conflicts, or inspired others to achieve their best. Highlight your calm and inspirational management style.
✨Discuss Menu Innovation
Be ready to talk about your approach to menu planning and how you incorporate fresh, sustainable ingredients. Discuss any innovative dishes you've created and how they contributed to customer satisfaction and sales.
✨Understand Financial Drivers
Since budget management is crucial, be prepared to discuss your experience with cost control and financial monitoring in a kitchen environment. Show that you understand how to balance quality with budgetary constraints while maintaining high standards.
