Food Development Chef

Summary:

Food Development Chef opportunity at a prestigious institution. Lead menu development and training for kitchen staff.

About the School:

The school is committed to educational excellence, pastoral care, and fostering a supportive, inclusive environment for students and staff alike. It is dedicated to making a positive impact through innovation and collaboration.

The Opportunity:

As a Food Development Chef, you will play a key role in creating nutritious, culturally diverse meals and training kitchen staff to uphold high culinary standards. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of the school community through food.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement balanced, healthy, and appealing menus that meet dietary guidelines and student preferences.
• Create original recipes using seasonal ingredients, while accommodating dietary restrictions and maintaining high culinary standards.
• Ensure all meals meet quality, taste, and food safety standards, including compliance with HACCP and allergen management.
• Design and deliver training programs to enhance the skills of kitchen staff and support apprentice chefs.
• Conduct menu testing and gather feedback from stakeholders to continuously refine offerings.
• Manage the food budget and find cost-effective ways to maintain quality without compromising standards.
• Collaborate with catering management and other departments to ensure efficient and effective service.
• Educate students on nutrition, food preparation, and healthy eating habits.

Qualifications & Skills:

Required

• Proven experience in culinary development, preferably in a school or institutional setting.
• Strong culinary skills and a passion for creating nutritious and delicious meals.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to train and motivate staff.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices in kitchen hygiene.
• Experience with allergen control and training.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.

Preferred

• Experience in menu planning and recipe development.
• Background in teaching or mentoring apprentice chefs.
• Commitment to promoting healthy eating and food sustainability.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary and pension contributions.
• Generous holiday allowance, including 28 days per year.
• Access to sport and leisure facilities, cycle to work scheme, and employee assistance programme.