Company Description
Caterlink is the education sector catering specialist. For over 20 years, the company has delivered fresh food solutions to pupils and staff at primary schools, secondary schools, and colleges across the UK. The company caters to more than 1,000,000 meals a week. Our "Fresh Food Policy" is the foundation of our success and growth, coupled with a desire to truly deliver on our promises to clients and support our site-based teams.
Job Description
Caterlink is seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to join our team in Northwich, United Kingdom. As the Head Chef, you will play a crucial role in ensuring that our students receive nutritionally balanced and delicious meals while maintaining the highest standards of food safety and customer service.
Details
* Term Time Only, Monday - Friday
* Salary: £27,000 per year
Responsibilities
1. Lead and manage the kitchen team, fostering a collaborative and efficient work environment.
2. Plan and create innovative, nutritionally balanced menus tailored to students' needs and preferences.
3. Oversee the preparation, cooking, and presentation of meals to meet company and client standards.
4. Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and maintain high hygiene standards in the kitchen.
5. Manage kitchen operations, including inventory control, budgeting, and cost management.
6. Train and develop kitchen staff, promoting a culture of continuous improvement.
7. Collaborate with college management to meet dietary requirements and accommodate special requests.
8. Actively engage with students and staff to gather feedback and improve meal offerings.
9. Implement and maintain quality control measures for all food preparation and service.
10. Participate in menu planning sessions and contribute creative ideas for special events and themed meals.
Qualifications and Skills
1. Proven experience as a Head Chef or in a similar leadership role in a kitchen setting.
2. Strong knowledge of food safety standards and regulations, with a Level 3 Food Hygiene certification.
3. Excellent understanding of nutrition and ability to create balanced meals for students.
4. Proficiency in menu planning, food preparation techniques, and kitchen management.
5. Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage a diverse team.
6. Excellent organisational and time management skills.
7. Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
8. Solid financial acumen for budgeting and cost control.
9. Proficient in using kitchen equipment and technology.
10. Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
11. Creativity and innovation in meal planning and presentation.
12. Knowledge of dietary requirements and allergen management.
13. Flexibility to adapt to changing needs and requirements in an educational setting.
14. Commitment to ongoing professional development and staying current with culinary trends.
Benefits
* Enjoy a great work/life balance with term-time only hours and no weekends.
* Access to our Employee Discount Platform for savings at supermarkets, cinemas, restaurants, holiday discounts, family days out, and more.
* Employee Assistance Program and Virtual GP benefits available free of charge for you and your family.
* Potential eligibility to join our Pension scheme.
#J-18808-Ljbffr