Chef reference: R-184709

This review offers an in-depth look at the Full-Time Chef position at the John Lewis Partnership's Magna Park Campus, designed to help prospective candidates make informed career decisions.

Opportunity Overview:

Join the heart of John Lewis Distribution at the Magna Park Campus as a full-time Chef. This role is pivotal in ensuring the efficient supply chain for John Lewis shops and fulfilling online customer orders. Beyond the core culinary duties, you'll be contributing to the well-being and satisfaction of over 2000 Partners daily across four kitchens serving three warehouses. This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a large, employee-owned business with a strong focus on quality and service.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Competitive Remuneration & Enhanced Hours Premium: The role offers an annual salary between £26,200-£38,000. Furthermore, a significant Evening Premium (£3.00 per hour for 18:00-22:00) and Night Premium (£4.00 per hour for 22:00-06:00) are available for those enrolled in the Enhanced Hours Premium arrangements, providing an excellent opportunity to boost earnings for those willing to work flexible or unsociable hours.
• Meaningful Work & Impact: You will be directly contributing to the operational success of a major distribution hub and the daily welfare of its Partners. The role involves preparing a range of fresh meals, from breakfast to dinner, including delicious cakes and desserts, making your contribution highly visible and appreciated.
• Employee Ownership & Rewarding Benefits: As part of the John Lewis Partnership, you're not just an employee, but a Partner and co-owner. This unique model offers shared rewards and a strong sense of belonging. Benefits include:
  • Full uniform supplied, including safety shoes.
  • Meals on duty, depending on hours worked.
  • Free on-site parking.
  • Generous Partnership discount (25% at John Lewis & Partners, 20% at Waitrose & Partners) after three months, which can also be shared.
  • Discounted cinema tickets and O2 arena VIP suites.
  • Discounted rates on holidays at Partnership hotels.
  • Excellent work-life balance support, including flexible working options and a strong equal parenthood leave policy.
• Professional Development: The role includes comprehensive induction training and mandatory Food Safety Level 2 and Level 3 training within the first three months, ensuring your skills remain up-to-date and recognized.
• Career Progression: While this role requires a Level 2 Diploma or equivalent, having a Level 3 Diploma is desirable, indicating potential pathways for career growth within the culinary team.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Working Pattern: The role involves a rotating shift pattern, covering both "Earlies" (7:00-15:00) and "Lates" (11:30-19:30), working five days a week. Critically, this includes working one weekend in every four. Candidates should assess if this schedule aligns with their personal commitments and career aspirations.
• Operational Environment: The role operates within a "fast hot environment" and involves hands-on work across all areas, including cleaning, stock control, deliveries, counter service, and shift close-down. While challenging, this provides a comprehensive and varied experience.
• Essential Skills: Candidates must possess a City & Guilds professional chef level 2 diploma or equivalent, operational experience in dining facilities or the hospitality industry, and strong stakeholder management or senior influencing skills. Be prepared to demonstrate these during the application and interview process.
• Pre-Employment Vetting: Be aware that some roles may be subject to pre-employment vetting, which could include DBS checks. The Partnership aims to inform candidates early in the process and encourages prompt completion of any required documents.
• Application Timeline: Vacancies can close early due to high application volumes. It is highly recommended to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing this opportunity.

Guiding Your Career Path:

This Chef position at the John Lewis Partnership is ideal for individuals seeking a stable, rewarding career within a unique employee-owned business. If you thrive in a dynamic kitchen environment, are committed to high standards of food preparation and safety, and value a supportive work culture with excellent benefits, this role offers a significant opportunity. The potential for enhanced earnings through the shift premium makes it particularly attractive for those who can adapt to flexible working hours. By demonstrating your operational expertise, commitment to quality, and ability to work collaboratively, you can establish a strong foundation for future growth within the John Lewis Partnership.