At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and present delicious dishes while ensuring top-notch kitchen operations.
- Company: Join the vibrant Dragonfly Hotel team in Colchester.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, tips, discounts, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Promote from within and access to employee support programmes.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic kitchen and create memorable dining experiences.
- Qualifications: 2 years' experience in hospitality, strong teamwork, and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 22950 - 28050 £ per year.
Dragonfly Hotel, Colchester is looking for a reliable and enthusiastic
Chef De Partie (CDP) to join our kitchen team.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced individual who enjoys taking pride in their work whilst maintaining excellent standards of cleanliness, food safety, and customer service.
As a
CDP you will play an important role in the day-to-day operation of the kitchen, helping to ensure our guests receive a memorable dining experience that keeps them coming back.
What You'll Be Doing as our CDP
As part of our kitchen team, you will
- Prepare, cook, and present food to Company standards.
- Support the smooth day-to-day running of the kitchen operation.
- Ensure food is produced and served efficiently during service periods.
- Maintain the highest standards of food hygiene, food handling, and cleanliness.
- Complete all kitchen checks and documentation accurately and on time.
- Assist with stock control, stock rotation, and minimising food waste.
- Help control costs through effective use of ingredients and resources.
- Work closely with colleagues to ensure an excellent guest experience.
- Follow all Company procedures relating to Health & Safety, Food Safety, COSHH, and Fire Safety.
- Maintain a clean, organised, and safe working environment.
- Report any hazards, maintenance concerns, or incidents promptly.
What We're Looking For in a CDP
We're looking for someone who is passionate about hospitality and enjoys working as part of a team.
You'll ideally have
At least 2 years' experience within a hotel, restaurant, or catering environment.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Superb customer service and teamwork skills.
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to quality.
- Excellent timekeeping and reliability.
- The ability to remain calm and organised during busy periods.
- A good understanding of food hygiene and health and safety practices.
- A proactive and positive attitude towards work.
What we offer you
- Flexible working hours- rotas do include weekends and evening service, rarely an early start though!
- Inclusion in Tronc scheme (Tips)
- Retail & Supermarket Discounts
- Discounted meals & stays across all of the groups hotels around the UK- up to 50% off!
- A development programme to continue your rise to becoming a “Hospitality Superstar”- We love to promote from within our teams - including apprenticeships, accredited and professional training.
- Bike to work and Bus Fare Discount Scheme
- Access to Employee Assistance Programme – helping our hospitality team through any difficult times, totally free & confidential, 24/7
- Stream – access your wages as you earn them, or save as you earn too!
As a Company within Flying Trade Group's family of businesses we own and run 15 hotels and bars throughout East Anglia and Surrey. We're a diverse and dynamic Group, come join us!
CDP in Essex employer: Surya Hotels
At The Dragonfly Hotel in Bury St Edmunds, we pride ourselves on fostering a vibrant and supportive work culture where every team member is valued. With benefits like increasing annual leave, flexible working hours, and extensive development programmes, we empower our Housekeeping Team Members to excel and grow within the hospitality industry. Join us in creating unforgettable guest experiences while enjoying a rewarding career in a dynamic environment that truly cares about its people.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land CDP in Essex
✨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 Surya Hotels. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Surya Hotels
Don't be shy about reaching out to Surya Hotels 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 CDP in Essex
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 Surya Hotels 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 Surya Hotels
✨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!
