At a Glance
- Tasks: Travel across Sussex and Hampshire to deliver high-quality food in various kitchens.
- Company: Join a dynamic culinary team with a passion for excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, travel reimbursement, and opportunities for skill development.
- Other info: Flexible hours and a supportive team environment await you!
- Why this job: Be part of exciting events and new menu launches while showcasing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in a busy kitchen and a full UK driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Purpose of the Role
As a Roaming Chef, you will report to the Head Chef at your assigned site, or the Sous Chef in their absence.
You will work across multiple company venues throughout Sussex and Hampshire, providing operational kitchen support wherever required.
The purpose of this role is to ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality food, maintain exceptional food safety and hygiene standards, and provide flexible cover during periods of annual leave, sickness, recruitment, business growth, and peak trading.
The Roaming Chef is expected to uphold company standards at every location and act as a positive ambassador for the business.
Key Responsibilities Multi-Site Kitchen Support
- Travel to and work at company venues across Sussex and Hampshire as directed by the Operations Team.
- Provide kitchen cover for holidays, sickness, vacancies, training, and busy trading periods.
- Support new site openings, menu launches, special events, and operational projects when required.
- Adapt quickly to different kitchen environments, menus, and teams while maintaining company standards.
- Food Preparation and Service
- Prepare, cook, and present food to company specifications and recipes.
- Ensure all food is consistently produced to the highest standards of quality, taste, and presentation.
- Monitor portion control and minimise food waste.
- Ensure all dishes leaving the kitchen meet company expectations.
- Kitchen Operations
- Support the efficient day-to-day running of each kitchen.
- Work collaboratively with Head Chefs, Sous Chefs, and kitchen teams.
- Assist with service planning and organisation to ensure smooth kitchen operations.
- Promote a positive, professional, and supportive working environment.
- Staff Support
- Assist in training and developing junior chefs and kitchen assistants.
- Share best practices and encourage consistency across all kitchens.
- Lead by example through professional conduct, teamwork, and high standards.
- Stock Management
- Assist with stock control, ordering, stock rotation, and storage.
- Ensure food is stored safely and in accordance with food safety regulations.
- Support the control of food costs and reduction of waste.
- Food Safety and Compliance
- Maintain excellent standards of food hygiene and kitchen cleanliness.
- Comply with all Food Safety, HACCP, Health & Safety, and company policies.
- Report equipment faults, maintenance issues, or safety concerns promptly.
- Ensure all legal and company food safety procedures are followed at every location.
- Flexibility and Problem Solving
- Remain calm and organised under pressure.
- Resolve operational issues efficiently and professionally.
- Be flexible in working patterns to meet business needs, including evenings, weekends, bank holidays, and seasonal trading periods.
- Travel & Expenses
- This is a multi-site role requiring regular travel between company locations throughout Sussex and Hampshire.
- A full UK driving licence and access to a reliable vehicle are essential.
- Mileage for authorised business travel will be reimbursed in accordance with the Company's Expenses Policy.
- Where appropriate, travel time between company sites during the working day will be treated in line with company policy and current employment legislation.
- The Company reserves the right to change the locations covered by this role in line with business requirements.
Skills & Experience
- Previous experience as a Chef in a busy commercial kitchen.
- Strong understanding of food safety, HACCP, and hygiene legislation.
- Excellent organisational and time management skills.
- Ability to work independently and integrate quickly into different teams.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Flexible, adaptable, and professional.
- Full UK driving licence and own transport.
- Personal Attributes
- Positive attitude and strong work ethic.
- Reliable and dependable.
- Calm under pressure.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Passion for delivering high-quality food.
- Willingness to travel and work across multiple locations.
- Reporting Line
The Roaming Chef reports operationally to the Head Chef or Sous Chef at the site where they are working and functionally to the Operations Team.
Other Duties
The duties outlined in this job description are not exhaustive.
The Company reserves the right to amend responsibilities to meet changing business needs.
Employees may be required to undertake other reasonable duties consistent with the nature and level of the role.
Chef in Havant employer: The Old House at Home
As a Roaming Chef with us, you will enjoy a dynamic work environment across beautiful Sussex and Hampshire, where your culinary skills will shine in various venues. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive culture that encourages professional growth, offering training opportunities and the chance to collaborate with talented chefs. With competitive benefits and a commitment to high standards, we ensure that our employees feel valued and empowered to deliver exceptional dining experiences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef in Havant
✨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 The Old House at Home. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Old House at Home
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Old House at Home 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 Chef in Havant
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 The Old House at Home 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 The Old House at Home
✨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!
