Catering Team Leader

Unlock Your Potential as a Catering Assistant Team Leader

This Catering Assistant Team Leader role at the John Lewis Partnership presents a compelling opportunity for driven individuals looking to advance their careers in the hospitality sector. Beyond a standard leadership position, this role offers a unique blend of operational responsibility, team development, and the rewarding experience of being a Partner in one of the UK's most cherished employee-owned businesses.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Candidates:

• Career Advancement and Development: This role is a fantastic stepping stone for those seeking leadership experience. You'll be instrumental in overseeing daily catering operations, directly supporting a team of Catering Assistants, and collaborating with management. The emphasis on fostering a culture of development and inclusion means you'll be empowered to grow your team and your own leadership skills.
• Exceptional Earning Potential with Premiums: A significant advantage of this role, particularly for those who can work evenings, is the **Evening Premium of £3.00 per hour** (18:00-22:00) and the **Night Premium of £4.00 per hour** (22:00-06:00), applicable from 5th October 2025. This provides a substantial boost to your contractual pay of £26,200, allowing for a potential annual earning of up to £38,000.
• Valuable Training and Skill Enhancement: You'll receive comprehensive training from day one, including a full site and department induction. Crucially, you'll undertake mandatory **Food Safety Level 2 within 3 months** and **Food Safety Level 3 immediately thereafter**. This commitment to upskilling ensures you're equipped with industry-leading qualifications.
• Comprehensive Operational Exposure: The role provides hands-on experience in a variety of catering functions, from maintaining food safety standards and delegating tasks to managing rotas, ordering supplies, and even overseeing vending operations. You'll also gain experience in interviewing and supporting new starters, broadening your operational skillset.
• The Unique Benefits of Partnership: As a Partner at the John Lewis Partnership, you're not just an employee; you're a co-owner. This translates into a wealth of benefits designed to reward your dedication. These include:
  • Full uniform and safety shoes supplied
  • Free meals on duty
  • Free on-site parking
  • Generous Partnership discount in John Lewis & Partners and Waitrose & Partners (after 3 months)
  • Discounted cinema tickets and O2 arena experiences
  • Discounted holidays at John Lewis Partnership hotels
  • Excellent work-life balance with a focus on wellbeing and leading equal parenthood leave policies.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Working Pattern: The role involves a **37.5-hour week, working 11:30-19:30**, with **two weekends worked within a four-week rota**. Candidates should assess if this schedule aligns with their personal commitments and long-term career goals.
• Location: The position is based at the Fenny Lock Distribution Centre in Milton Keynes. Candidates should consider commute times and proximity.
• Essential Skills: A strong foundation in operational experience within dining facilities and the hospitality industry is vital. Furthermore, demonstrated stakeholder management or senior influencing skills are crucial for effectively leading the team and collaborating with management.
• Desirable Skills: While not mandatory, possessing Food Safety Level 2 and 3 certifications would be a significant asset, allowing you to hit the ground running with essential qualifications.
• Commitment to Standards: The role demands a high standard of performance, including the meticulous application of John Lewis food safety policies and procedures, and the ability to oversee the daily running of the operation with minimal supervision.
• Vetting Requirements: Be aware that some roles may be subject to pre-employment vetting, potentially including DBS checks. This is standard practice for many positions and information will be provided during the recruitment process.

This Catering Assistant Team Leader position offers a rewarding career path within a unique and supportive employee-owned organization. If you are a motivated individual with a passion for hospitality and leadership, and you're looking for an opportunity that values your contribution and offers significant growth potential, this role is certainly worth exploring.