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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen team, ensuring food quality and guest satisfaction.
- Company: Join a global leader in authentic Japanese cuisine with over 70 restaurants worldwide.
- Benefits: Enjoy free YO! food, professional qualifications support, and discounts on gym memberships and dining.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team dedicated to exceptional food and guest experiences.
- Qualifications: A love for food and a can-do attitude are essential; experience in a kitchen is a plus.
- Other info: Work in a vibrant environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 30200 - 38200 £ per year.
Job Description
Head Chef Operations – Manchester Selfridges Trafford Contract: Full Time
Salary: £36,202 – £38,201
Contracted Hours: 45
We burst onto the restaurant scene in 1997, when we shook up London and showed the UK a new way of eating. Part of this was the 'kaiten' conveyor belt and colour-coded dishes which made our name.
We're all about fresh, flavoursome, authentic Japanese food. Sushi is what we're famous for, but we also have a mouth-watering range of hot street food available – from traditional classics to innovative fusion dishes. All packed with rich, aromatic flavours and umami. Fast forward to today and we have over 70 restaurants all over the globe, more than 300 kiosks in the UK, with grocery products and pre-pack sushi in most major UK supermarkets.
We are looking for dynamic individuals with a love and passion for food to join us on our exciting journey Our people are at the heart of what we do:
• You will be a role model, have an appetite for success and a real thirst for delivering exceptional results.
• You will be ambitious and hungry to learn.
• You will always strive to do your best.
• You will be enthusiastic and have a positive disposition.
• You will embrace challenges head on, with a willing can-do attitude.
• You will want to be part of our success story.
What you will be doing:
The Head Chef is responsible for the entire operation of their YO! Kitchen and ultimately accountable for the safety of our teams & guests.
Leading and inspiring the kitchen team you are obsessive about food quality, adherence to spec and can prepare each and every YO! dish brilliantly. Happy teams and Happy guests is the mantra by which you live and instil this modus operandi across the team. You are passionate about an incredible guest experience, developing the team to Super Squad status and driving the profitability of your restaurant through great controls of food cost lines.
Comfortable and natural in all sections of the kitchen, you cut fish, cook rice, roll sushi, and prepare our kitchens every day. You are also an inspirational presence in your restaurant, running high energy shifts from the kitchen and ensuring each and every day part delivers an outstanding experience for our guests and team.
We're proud to offer:
- Fantastic working hours
- Free YO! food – What's your favourite YO! dish? Every time you work you can power your shift with a selection of your choice from our fantastic menu
- Grow with YO!- we will pay for you to achieve professional qualifications (up to Degree level) whilst you work
- Brilliant support services designed to enhance your physical, mental and financial wellbeing including private medical health plan and 24/7 Employee Assistance Line
- Discounted gym membership, cinema tickets, dining out and retail offers are all available by accessing our reward platform
- 50% off your food every time you dine with us for you and 3 friends
- Award-winning sustainability initiatives – We're committed to delivering progress against 9 UN sustainability goals, just some of the actions we've already taken include: 100% of all Salmon
- sourced from certified sustainable sources, Zero use of Species classed as MCS "Fish to Avoid"
- 1/3
Head Chef employer: YO! RESTAURANT
Contact Detail:
YO! RESTAURANT Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific dishes and cooking techniques that are popular in Japanese cuisine, especially sushi. This knowledge will not only impress during interviews but also show your genuine passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of the restaurant chain. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and what it takes to succeed as a Head Chef, which can give you an edge in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you inspire kitchen teams. Highlight any previous experiences where you successfully managed a team, as this is crucial for the Head Chef position.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your understanding of food cost management and profitability strategies. Being able to articulate how you would drive profitability while maintaining quality will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Head Chef. Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements mentioned in the job description, such as food quality, team leadership, and guest experience.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience in kitchen management, food preparation, and team leadership. Use specific examples that demonstrate your passion for food and ability to deliver exceptional results.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention your love for Japanese cuisine and how your values align with the company's mission. Be sure to include any unique skills or experiences that set you apart.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in a culinary environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at YO! RESTAURANT
✨Show Your Passion for Food
As a Head Chef, your love for food should shine through. Be prepared to discuss your favourite dishes, cooking techniques, and what inspires you in the kitchen. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment to delivering exceptional culinary experiences.
✨Highlight Leadership Skills
The role requires leading and inspiring a kitchen team. Share examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, resolved conflicts, or motivated staff to achieve high standards. This will show that you're not just a great cook, but also a capable leader.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Japanese Cuisine
Since the restaurant focuses on authentic Japanese food, brush up on your knowledge of sushi preparation, traditional dishes, and flavour profiles. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will set you apart as a candidate who truly understands the cuisine.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions about the restaurant's culture, menu development, and sustainability initiatives. This shows your genuine interest in the company and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
