Summary
1. Senior Chef
2. Based at Manchester Airport
3. Permanent, Full-time (40 hours per week)
4. Salary: £32,900 per annum
Why CAVU?
For airports, for partners, for people. We are CAVU.
Formed from the union of MAGO, MAG USA and our network of direct-to-consumer brands - who together drive market leading passenger spend for airports across the world - we have combined our resources to address evolving passenger needs today and exceed them as we move forward into tomorrow.
From our revenue accelerating single platform technology, Propel, through to our world class hospitality venues including Hangar, 1903, Proof65 and Escape Lounges - our solutions make travel more seamless and enjoyable for passengers and more profitable for our clients and partners.
Our name is taken from the aviation, meteorology term, Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited, which designates the perfect flying condition.
More than just a name, CAVU is our mindset. It represents all that we stand for. Our proud aviation heritage, our drive to push boundaries, and the very essence of what we do: creating seamless, enjoyable travel experiences for airport passengers.
Together, we can reach new heights. Together, we are CAVU.
The role
The Senior Chef leads all culinary operations, ensuring exceptional food quality, presentation, and service. This hands on role provides strong kitchen leadership while delivering an outstanding dining experience. As a key ambassador for CAVU Experiences and the Escape brand, the Senior Chef upholds its values and inspires both guests and the wider team.
The Senior Chef will lead in Manchesters Executive Airport Lounge. This is a premium, high end space for discerning travellers, offering a refined atmosphere with self service buffets, high quality food and drink options, and the choice of seated dining. Open daily, it reflects the luxury and exclusivity of the Escape brand.
Principle Accountabilities:
5. Menu & Food Standards: Deliver all dishes to required specifications, ensuring exceptional flavour, consistency, and presentation.
6. Brand Representation: Act as a positive ambassador for CAVU Experiences, promoting its values and contributing to a professional, creative, and guest focused culture.
7. Guest Interaction: Engage with guests to gather feedback, accommodate requests, and personalise their dining experience. Regularly review feedback data to identify trends and improvements.
8. Commercial Responsibilities: Manage ordering, receipt, and supplier relationships to maintain stock levels and resolve delivery issues. Monitor and record food waste, analyse data, and support sustainable kitchen practices. Assist with accurate monthly and ad hoc stocktakes.
9. People Leadership: Support in leading, developing, and motivating the kitchen team, contributing to reviews, recognition, training compliance, and rota planning. Maintain strong communication and organisational standards, with flexibility around working hours.
10. Compliance & Safety: Uphold strict food safety and quality controls, complete regular checks and audits, ensure correct protective clothing is used, and maintain accurate compliance records through CAVU systems.
What will make you successful in the role?
Youll thrive in this role if you bring strong culinary expertise, a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences, and the ability to lead confidently in a fast paced environment. Youll be someone who inspires others, upholds high standards, and contributes positively to the culture of the Executive Lounge.
11. Strong understanding of food safety, hygiene standards, and allergen controls
12. Proven experience in a senior culinary role within a high volume, fast paced environment
13. Confident working in a call order / à la carte kitchen
14. Supportive leader who can coach, motivate, and inspire a diverse team
15. Ability to prioritise, delegate, and stay composed under pressure
16. Commitment to maintaining high safety and hygiene standards
17. Comfortable with the physical demands of a role spent largely on your feet
18. Proficient with computers, especially Microsoft Office
19. Professional, guest focused role model for the Escape brand
20. Adaptable, resilient, and proactive in a changing environment
21. Professional appearance and demeanour suited to a premium setting
As a CAVU employee you will have access to some great benefits including:
22. Access to our employee rewards portal with discounts and savings
23. 24hour Employee Assistance Programme
24. Pension scheme which doubles your contribution
25. Fantastic career development opportunities We are the UKs largest Airport Operator!
26. Tax free Airside shopping in our departure lounge
27. Meals on duty