For many decades, the hospitality and culinary industry have been experiencing fast growth. New hotels and demand for hospitality services are increasing. Despite this growth, the number of experienced chefs is low. With this reality, a new breed of chefs is coming up. This breed known as freelance or relief chefs is becoming a life-saver for many hospitality business owners. If you are a chef, you can consider joining the new trend. But you need to understand what is a relief chef and the reason for becoming one.
Who is a relief chef?
A relief chef is a freelancing position. It means you do not work in a permanent position. The relief chefs offer temporary hospitality services in their area of specialization. Also, they are flexible and mobile since they do not work for a single client.
When you become a relief chef, you can work in any kitchen, restaurant, hotel, corporate, or care home. You can be in charge of the entire kitchen or work on a particular recipe. But why should you consider becoming a relief chef than going for a permanent position? Here are some reasons:
Beinga relief chef is highly flexible
Do you want to have a flexible schedule while doing what you love most? No doubt, hospitality jobs have a fixed program. Many staff working in this industry rarely get enough time to relax or share with their family.
As an experienced chef, you do not have to follow the same predicaments. You can work when and where you want. The secret to realizing this is by becoming a relief chef. Flexibility is the heart of this field.
Having a work-life balance as a freelance chef is highly doable. Since it is a freelance option, you decide when to work. You no longer have a 9-5 or late-night tight schedule. So, you can share do what you love while sharing enough time one personal life affairs.
Opportunity to learn and travel
The relief chef field comes with a lot of learning opportunities. First, you do not work for a single institution or restaurant. The position allows you to work with various organizations, event managers, and kitchens. This aspect offers you a chance to learn and try new recipes.
Also, some chef agencies work with nomadic clients. They will organize events in different cities and countries. If you love travelling, you will have an opportunity to move around with your clients. So, this position offers you a chance to travel and learn different recipes and culinary practices.
Get paid for every hour worked
Despite having a tight schedule, most hospitality workers do not receive their rightful compensation. Some work for extra hours and handle different activities in the kitchen without receiving payment for it.
In particular, chefs have the mandate of ensuring everything is moving seamlessly in the kitchen. They must receive each customer’s order and fulfill it to their expectations. For freelance chefs, things are different.
When you take up a relief chef position, you receive payment for every hour worked. Also, you only work on the assigned recipe. No overworking. So, you will no longer work beyond the agreed time unless they are ready to compensate you.
Wrapping up
Now, you know what a relief chef is. Working as one allows you to have a flexible schedule. You have the freedom to determine when to work or rest. Also, you get a chance to spend time with your friends and family. The opportunity ensure you get a coin for every hour you work.
However, before considering a relief chef opportunity, you should assess the chef agency recruiting you. Always ensure you work with a reputable chef agency. Reach out to us if you are seeking a relief chef job in the UK.