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- Tasks: Create seasonal menus, support events, and drive food training programmes.
- Company: Join Thomas Franks, a fresh food catering business known for excellence and individuality.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts, free meals, enhanced leave, and career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team that values innovation and great food.
- Qualifications: Experience in B&I contract catering or Independent Schools at a senior chef level required.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are key; we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 60000 £ per year.
Contract: Full Time, Permanent
Salary: £50,000 per annum
Hours: 40 per week
Our head offices are based in the beautiful village of Hook Norton near Banbury. Here, you will find our teams of finance, HR, purchasing, marketing & creative that support all of our locations across the Thomas Franks family. There is ample parking available when visiting.
We are looking for a talented Development Chef to join and support our growing team. You will have experience within either the B&I contract catering sector or the Independent School sector at Executive Head Chef, Executive Chef Manager, or Development Chef level to be considered for this role.
Key responsibilities:
- Support with mobilisations
- Assist with troubleshooting at locations requiring additional support
- Drive food-based training and development programmes within the business
- Support high-level hospitality and events
- Create bespoke seasonal menus from regional and local suppliers
- Mentor and support in setting food standards
- Complete food costings as required
- Handle company administrative tasks
- Ensure adherence to company food standards and control wastage
- Implement Thomas Franks Fresh Food Standards, using local and in-season produce, and address areas of concern
- Follow all Food Hygiene and Health & Safety policies and allergen control procedures
You will have the following skills:
- Genuine interest in food and excellent customer service skills
- Strong client relationship skills
- Team player and leader
- Passion for innovation and great food
- Organized with attention to detail
- Financial understanding
Benefits include: discounts at major retailers, free meals on duty, volunteers leave, enhanced maternity/paternity/adoptive leave, cycle to work scheme, recommend a friend bonus, training and development, apprenticeship programmes, social events, employee assistance, and career progression opportunities.
About us: Thomas Franks is a founder-led, fresh food catering business focused on excellence and service delivered with individuality, passion, and style. Our clients and our people are central to our success.
Disclaimer: Applicants must demonstrate the right to work in the UK. An enhanced DBS, identity, and reference checks will be part of the selection process. We are committed to safeguarding children and fair treatment of all applicants, complying fully with the DBS Code of Practice. For posts in schools, criminal convictions must be declared.
Diversity and Inclusion at Thomas Franks: We encourage applications from diverse backgrounds and under-represented groups to foster growth, inclusion, and better results.
Development Chef employer: Thomas Franks Ltd.
Contact Detail:
Thomas Franks Ltd. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the B&I contract catering sector or Independent School sector. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with people who can provide insights and potentially refer you to opportunities at Thomas Franks.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for innovation in food by sharing your culinary creations on social media or a personal blog. This not only highlights your skills but also demonstrates your commitment to staying current with food trends, which is essential for a Development Chef role.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with Thomas Franks' Fresh Food Standards and their approach to using local and seasonal produce. Being knowledgeable about their values and practices will help you stand out during interviews and show that you're aligned with their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience in mentoring and training others in the kitchen. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully implemented training programmes or improved food standards, as this aligns closely with the responsibilities of the Development Chef position.
We think you need these skills to ace Development Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in the B&I contract catering sector or Independent School sector. Emphasise your roles as an Executive Head Chef, Executive Chef Manager, or Development Chef, showcasing specific achievements and skills that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your genuine interest in food and customer service. Mention your passion for innovation and how you can contribute to Thomas Franks' commitment to excellence and individuality in catering.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills in client relationship management, team leadership, and food standards adherence. Provide examples of how you've successfully implemented training programmes or created bespoke menus in previous roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a Development Chef role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thomas Franks Ltd.
✨Showcase Your Culinary Passion
Make sure to express your genuine interest in food during the interview. Share your experiences with innovative dishes and how you stay updated on culinary trends, as this will resonate well with the company's focus on excellence and individuality.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Development Chef, you'll need to mentor and support your team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, especially in the B&I contract catering or Independent School sectors.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific challenges, such as creating bespoke seasonal menus or addressing food standards issues. Think through potential scenarios and have clear, structured responses ready to demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
✨Understand Financial Aspects
Since the role involves completing food costings and understanding financial implications, brush up on your financial knowledge related to menu planning and cost control. Be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets or reduced wastage in previous roles.
