Development Chef in Manchester

Development Chef in Manchester

Manchester Full-Time 36000 - 54000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Westwood Recruitment

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Create innovative menus and collaborate with chefs to elevate food quality.
  • Company: Join a fast-growing hospitality group in Manchester, known for creativity and collaboration.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonuses, and opportunities for growth.
  • Other info: Work between a central kitchen and various venues, leading tastings and training sessions.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a vibrant environment while staying ahead of food trends.
  • Qualifications: Experience in a senior chef role with a passion for high-quality, creative food.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 54000 £ per year.

Are you a creative and passionate chef with a flair for innovation and a love for collaboration? We’re working with an amazing and fast-growing hospitality group based in Manchester that’s looking for a Development Chef to join their dynamic team.

About the Role:

This is an exciting, hands-on role where you'll be working closely with a diverse portfolio of venues and event businesses across Manchester and beyond. You’ll be based between a central production kitchen and working on-site alongside talented Head Chefs to bring fresh ideas to life, support menu innovation, and elevate food quality across the board.

What You’ll Be Doing:

  • Developing seasonal, innovative menus tailored to a wide range of venues and events.
  • Collaborating with venue chefs to roll out new concepts and ensure consistency and excellence.
  • Leading tastings, training, and development sessions across the business.
  • Working closely with senior stakeholders to align culinary direction with brand identity.
  • Staying ahead of food trends to keep the offering exciting and commercially on point.

What We’re Looking For:

  • Proven experience in a senior chef role – ideally with multi-site or development experience.
  • A passion for high-quality, creative food with a commercial mindset.
  • Strong leadership, mentoring and communication skills.
  • Experience working in event catering, hospitality groups, or central production a bonus.
  • Hands-on approach with a drive to make things happen.

Why Join?

  • Be part of an inspiring, creative, and supportive company that’s growing fast.
  • Work across a vibrant portfolio with a real opportunity to make an impact.
  • Enjoy a competitive salary up to £45,000 plus bonus and benefits.
  • Real scope for growth and development as the company continues to scale.

Development Chef in Manchester employer: Westwood Recruitment

Join a fast-growing hospitality group in Manchester that values creativity and collaboration, offering a vibrant work culture where your culinary innovations can truly shine. With a competitive salary of up to £45,000 plus bonuses, you'll have ample opportunities for professional growth while working alongside talented chefs in a dynamic environment. This role not only allows you to influence menu development across diverse venues but also supports your passion for high-quality food in an inspiring setting.

Westwood Recruitment

Contact Details:

Westwood Recruitment Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Development Chef in Manchester

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 Westwood Recruitment. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to Westwood Recruitment

Don't be shy about reaching out to Westwood Recruitment 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 Development Chef in Manchester

Culinary Creativity
Menu Development
Leadership Skills
Communication Skills
Collaboration
Event Catering Experience
Food Trend Awareness

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 Westwood Recruitment 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 Westwood Recruitment

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!