Home to 655,000 people, Oxfordshire is situated in the South England and is only one hour and twenty minutes away from the hustle and bustle of London. Its proximity to the city makes Oxfordshire an ideal location for employment within the catering industry. Those seeking a role within the catering industry in the county will find opportunities in a variety of companies: both public and private sector, and firms of different sizes.
Major employers within the county include world renowned Oxford University, whose colleges each have their own catering teams. Roles within this sector also include those within the NHS and the council - another two of the top ten employers within the county.
Tourism and entertainment are major industries in Oxfordshire, and the county is home to a vast number of reputable dining establishments, ranging from cafés to fine dining restaurants. With Michelin starred restaurants including Le Manoir au Quat' Saisons and the Nut Tree, Oxfordshire has a firm place on the culinary map.
Staff are required at all levels, from kitchen porters to head chefs at established restaurants. Pay will depend on experience and the role in question, with work often casual or based on a rota, and therefore paying hourly rates. Expect to earn upwards of £6 per hour for shift-based work, with more senior chefs earning from £20,000 upwards per annum.
Recruitment agencies will generally recruit candidates based on experience, rather than on any formal qualifications, although a relevant degree say in Food and Nutrition for example, will always be beneficial. Food hygiene certificates will, however, quite often be needed, as well as strong levels of personal hygiene, with vocational qualifications benefiting those who are relatively new to the industry. Specialist recruitment agencies exist to help to match candidates and employers in the catering sector.
