We are seeking to recruit a Development Chef on behalf of our client, a major hospitality & catering provider operating both North & South of the border.
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Role Purpose
The Development Chef is responsible for driving culinary innovation, developing commercially viable menus, and ensuring high food standards across the contract catering estate in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. This role blends creativity with operational awareness, ensuring that all food offerings meet client expectations, budget requirements, regional preferences, and legislative standards.
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Key Responsibilities
Menu & Recipe Development
• Create innovative, seasonal, and cost effective menus suitable for multiple sectors (e.g., B&I, education, healthcare, hospitality).
• Develop recipe specifications, portion sizes, allergen information, and costings.
• Adapt menus to meet regional tastes and regulatory differences between NI and ROI.
• Lead periodic menu refreshes, food trend analysis, and showcase new concepts to clients and internal teams.
Operational Support
• Work closely with site chefs and managers to implement new menus, standards, and food concepts.
• Conduct on site cooking demonstrations, training sessions, and quality audits.
• Support new site mobilisations and tender presentations as required.
• Troubleshoot operational challenges related to food quality, consistency, or cost control.
Quality, Standards & Compliance
• Ensure food safety, allergen management, and HACCP compliance across NI and ROI.
• Uphold brand standards and ensure consistent delivery across all units.
• Maintain thorough knowledge of food legislation in both jurisdictions.
Supplier & Product Development
• Collaborate with procurement teams on product selection, supplier innovation days, and cost optimisation.
• Evaluate new ingredients, equipment, and culinary technologies that support efficiency and quality.
Training & Team Development
• Provide coaching and skills development for culinary teams.
• Create training materials, guides, and standard operating procedures.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and culinary excellence.
Client Engagement & Business Development
• Support sales and retention teams with tasting sessions, site visits, proposals, and presentations.
• Build strong relationships with clients by understanding their needs and tailoring culinary solutions to suit.
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Skills, Experience & Competencies
Essential
• Proven experience as a Development Chef, Head Chef, or Executive Chef within contract catering or multi site environments.
• Strong understanding of food cost control, GP management, and commercial menu planning.
• Ability to train, motivate, and influence teams across multiple sites.
• Full driving licence and willingness to travel throughout NI and ROI.
• Excellent knowledge of HACCP, food safety, allergen legislation (including differences between UK & ROI regulations).
• Creative, trend aware approach to food with strong presentation skills.
Desirable
• Experience in tender support and client presentations.
• Familiarity with sustainable and ethical sourcing practices.
• Experience in education, B&I, healthcare, or retail catering sectors.
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Personal Attributes
• Passionate about food innovation and quality.
• Strong communicator with the ability to build positive relationships.
• Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple projects.
• Comfortable working autonomously and adapting to different environments.
• Energetic, resilient, and solution focused.
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Working Conditions
• Regular travel across NI and ROI.
• Occasional early starts, evenings, or weekend work for events or menu launches.
• Hands on role requiring time in kitchens, at sites, and in development sessions.
• Salary range c£45k plus £4k car allowance and benefits
Interested candidates who meet the above criteria please forward CV in the strictest confidence via link below
