My career
Q So what does a contract catering development chef do?
A I am responsible for implementing the standards for the company. I don't teach people how to cook, but aim to inspire individuals with my passion.
I am involved in the mobilization of all new-business units, which means setting up the new kitchens with existing or new staff. The introduction of new signature dishes and the development and refinement of menus to brasserie-style standards are also part of my job when we take on a new contract.
Q Who decides what you're cooking? A I put together a selection of menus in line with the food offer set up by the client to meet the customer's needs.
Q What do you need to control within your own team? A While achieving and producing the best quality dishes, it is important to concentrate on kitchen morale. I work in various locations, from Northampton and Manchester to Milton Keynes and London.
Q How would someone get started?
A Some contract caterers have their own training facilities and programmes and young, energetic, passionate people would always be welcomed into this sector. Realistically, however, some previous catering experience would be beneficial.
Q So you're pretty high up in the pecking order? A I report directly to the managing director, and the operations team I am working with on a particular project.
The contract catering development chef
- Implements standards across the group.
- Aims to inspire and encourage others.
- Creates signature dishes.
- Creates menus to comply with the food on offer.
- Travels to various units throughout the year.
- Reports directly to the managing director and the operations team.
- According to Mayday Recruitment, salaries for this position range from £25,000 to £28,000.
