Chef Manager in Cambridge

Chef Manager in Cambridge

Cambridge Full-Time 37500 - 37500 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Thomas Franks Ltd

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a dynamic catering team to deliver exceptional food and service daily.
  • Company: Join Thomas Franks, a fresh food catering business focused on excellence and individuality.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, free meals, discounts, and excellent career progression.
  • Other info: Diversity and inclusion are at our core; we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a prestigious environment while developing your culinary skills.
  • Qualifications: Experience in catering management and a recognised cooking qualification required.

The predicted salary is between 37500 - 37500 £ per year.

Contract: Full Time, Permanent

Salary: 37500

Hours: 40 per week

A stunning B&I location in Cambridge for a UK-based medical research company, catering for approximately 100 people daily. We offer breakfast, lunch and some high-end hospitality. The role is a Monday to Friday operation.

We are looking to hire an experienced Chef Manager to join the operation at one of our prestigious locations in Cambridge. This role will be working closely with the catering team, along with the operations manager to ensure that the day-to-day catering and hospitality is delivered to a high standard. You will be experienced in a similar role.

Job Summary:

  • To lead the catering team with the day-to-day production & service of the member and staff dining facilities across the site, to liaise with the centre in the delivery of internal or external hospitality events.
  • To deliver both the client agreed budget and the company annual budget.
  • To develop and implement the members and staff dining and hospitality facilities across the site ensuring the quality of food and level of customer service, presentation of the dining and service areas etc. are maintained to the agreed standards.
  • To prepare, comment and report upon the monthly and annual Profit & Loss Operating Statements for Thomas Franks.
  • To develop each area of the catering offer in line with client expectations/budgetary constraints and agreed offer development plans.
  • To be responsible for the day-to-day operations of all catering facilities throughout the year working in line with the requirements of the business.
  • To assist in the process of change in the departments through setting standards and motivating staff to deliver them.
  • To liaise with members and clients via customer interaction and relevant member forums to make sure their requirements are met at all times.
  • To deliver the Food Services operations as directed by the Operations Manager to include members/staff dining and any internal and external hospitality.
  • Create and nurture an environment that emphasises motivation, empowerment, teamwork and a passion for service.
  • To provide excellent food and customer service and respond quickly and proactively to customers' needs.
  • To develop the food offer in line with current market trends and to the standards outlined in the Thomas Franks company values.
  • To ensure age-appropriate food is available in all locations throughout the dining period ensuring all special dietary requirements of members are adhered to at all times.
  • Establish and maintain open, collaborative relationships with all departments and ensure all members of your team do the same.
  • Ensure compliance with all Thomas Franks Food & F&B policies, standards and procedures by training, supervising, follow-up and hands-on management.
  • Maintain and develop service standards in all dining areas including the cleanliness and presentation of the room.
  • To have full knowledge of the Clients Safeguarding, Health & Safety, Fire and Accident and reporting procedures.
  • To carry out effective induction, review and development plans for staff within the areas managed and to maintain appropriate records.
  • To support any rehabilitation activity as required by the centre in support of open days, and centre delivery requirements.
  • To undertake any reasonable duties that may be required relating to the effective operation and development of commercial areas as directed by the Operations Manager.

Requirements:

  • Proven experience of delivering excellent food standards.
  • Be a hands-on Catering Manager leading the team in food production and service.
  • Proven ability to communicate with clients and deliver agreed objectives and goals.
  • High level of communication, to include reading, writing, oral and listening.
  • Customer and personal service skills, proven track record of customer service achievements.
  • Ability to work as part of a team.
  • Analytical/critical thinking, ability to gather and organise information using logical and systematic processes.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills.
  • Proven ability to manage a team and achieve high performance through motivation.
  • Must have the flexibility to work to the needs of the business.
  • Ability to demonstrate a good understanding and use of verbal English.
  • Ability to demonstrate a good standard of written English and reading skills.
  • Similar experience in a customer and/or food preparation environment is essential.
  • Hold a recognised cooking qualification such as City & Guild 706/1 & 2 or equivalent.

Benefits:

  • Wider wallet scheme (discounts at major retailers, restaurants, gyms etc).
  • Free meals on duty.
  • Volunteers leave - up to one day per year.
  • Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoptive leave.
  • Cycle to work scheme.
  • Recommend a friend bonus.
  • Unrivalled individual training and development.
  • Well established apprenticeship programme.
  • Team & company social events.
  • Employee assistance programme.
  • Excellent career progression within a leading independent contract caterer.

About us:

Thomas Franks is a founder-led, fresh food catering business with a focus on excellence and service delivered with individuality, passion and style. We are unique in every approach and our clients, and our people are paramount to our daily success.

All applicants must be able to demonstrate that they have the Right to Work in the UK to be considered for this role.

Diversity and Inclusion at Thomas Franks: We actively encourage applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds and continue to develop a culture of growth and inclusion and would like to invite applications from groups who are currently under-represented, because we believe greater diversity leads to exceptional results and provides a better working life.

Chef Manager in Cambridge employer: Thomas Franks Ltd

At Thomas Franks, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values individuality and teamwork. Located in the heart of Cambridge, our Chef Manager role provides not only competitive salary and benefits but also unrivalled opportunities for personal and professional growth within a leading independent contract caterer. Join us to be part of a passionate team dedicated to delivering excellence in food service while enjoying perks like free meals, enhanced leave options, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Thomas Franks Ltd

Contact Details:

Thomas Franks Ltd Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Chef Manager in Cambridge

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 Thomas Franks Ltd. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to Thomas Franks Ltd

Don't be shy about reaching out to Thomas Franks Ltd 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 Manager in Cambridge

Culinary Skills
Team Leadership
Budget Management
Customer Service
Food Safety Compliance
Interpersonal Skills
Communication Skills

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 Thomas Franks Ltd 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 Thomas Franks Ltd

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!