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- Tasks: Lead the creation of innovative menus and food concepts at Ascot Racecourse.
- Company: Join a prestigious culinary team at Ascot, a leader in British sport and events.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, flexible benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to inclusivity and high standards.
- Why this job: Shape the future of food in a high-profile environment where quality and creativity matter.
- Qualifications: Experience as a senior chef or development chef in fine dining or luxury hospitality.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are looking for an exceptional Development Chef to join the culinary leadership team at Ascot Racecourse, working in close partnership with the Executive Head Chef to help shape one of the most high-profile food offers in British sport and events.
This is a rare opportunity for a chef with genuine culinary authority to play a defining role in the future direction of food at Ascot. More than a traditional development position, this role sits at the intersection of innovation, leadership, operational judgement, and brand standards translating food strategy into clear, seasonal and confident menus across hospitality, retail, racedays, conferences and events.
You will help drive Ascot’s food offer forward, ensuring it is recognised not just for delivery at scale, but for the quality of its thinking, the strength of its identity, and the consistency of its execution.
- Help define and deliver the Ascot food offer strategy, aligned to the Ascot Food Ethos and evolving guest expectations.
- Lead the development of seasonal menus and food concepts across hospitality, retail and events.
- Create food offers that are modern, commercially intelligent, and operationally effective.
- Support Head Chefs with menu design, tastings, refinement and implementation.
- Work with suppliers to support product development, innovation and seasonality.
- Support strong control of food, labour and operational costs through effective planning and menu design.
- Drive high standards in allergens, dietary requirements, food safety and compliance.
- Contribute to the development of the Ascot Academy culinary programme.
Experience in a senior chef or development chef role within a premium environment is required, along with a strong background in fine dining, luxury hospitality, or high-quality food operations. Proven experience developing menus and food concepts that are both inspiring and practical to deliver is essential.
Confidence in tastings, presentations, and speaking knowledgeably about dishes and food direction is necessary, as well as a sharp understanding of seasonality, quality, and contemporary British food. Strong commercial awareness and sound operational judgement are also important.
This is an opportunity to shape food within a unique and prestigious environment where guest expectations are high, standards matter, and food plays an important role in the wider brand experience.
Development Kitchen Chef employer: Sodexo Live
Contact Detail:
Sodexo Live Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Kitchen Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow chefs, suppliers, and industry contacts. Attend culinary events or workshops to make connections that could lead to job opportunities. Remember, it’s not just about what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best dishes and menu concepts. This visual representation of your work can really impress potential employers and give them a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to places you’d love to work at, like Ascot Racecourse. Express your passion for their food ethos and how you can contribute to their culinary vision.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s food offerings and ethos. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. And don’t forget to apply through our website for a smoother application process!
We think you need these skills to ace Development Kitchen Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Culinary Passion: When writing your application, let your love for food shine through! Share your culinary journey and what inspires you to create exceptional dishes. We want to see your personality and passion for the role!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in fine dining or luxury hospitality. We’re looking for someone who can bring innovative ideas to the table, so don’t be shy about showcasing your past achievements in menu development and food concepts.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your skills and experiences, making it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for the Development Chef position at Ascot.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out on shaping the future of food at Ascot!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sodexo Live
✨Know Your Culinary Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of contemporary British cuisine and seasonal ingredients. Be ready to discuss your previous menu development experiences and how they align with the high standards expected at Ascot.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role is all about collaboration and leadership. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team or project in the past, especially in high-pressure environments. Highlight your ability to inspire others and drive culinary innovation.
✨Be Ready for Tastings
Expect to participate in tastings during the interview process. Bring your A-game by being articulate about flavours, textures, and presentation. Show that you can not only create but also critically evaluate dishes.
✨Understand the Brand Ethos
Familiarise yourself with Ascot's food ethos and how it reflects their brand identity. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to their vision and elevate their food offerings while maintaining operational efficiency.