Kitchen Team Member

Novotel Milton Keynes is often seen as a great place to work because it blends the strength of an international hotel brand with a friendly, people‑focused local culture. Key reasons include:

🌟 Strong Team Culture

• A supportive, inclusive environment where colleagues work collaboratively across departments
• Emphasis on respect, wellbeing, and teamwork, helping people feel valued and heard
• A “one team” mindset that encourages pride in the hotel’s success

📈 Career Development & Opportunities

• Part of Accor, giving employees access to structured training, apprenticeships, and online learning platforms
• Clear progression opportunities within the hotel and across the wider Accor network in the UK and globally
• Encouragement to develop leadership, hospitality, and transferable skills

🌍 Global Brand Benefits

• Discounts on hotel stays and dining at Accor properties worldwide
• The security and standards of a globally recognised hospitality brand
• Exposure to best practices and innovation in the hotel industry

😊 Positive Working Environment

• A fast‑paced but rewarding atmosphere where no two days are the same
• Opportunities to work with a diverse range of guests and colleagues
• Recognition of effort and achievements, helping boost morale and engagement

📍 Great Location

• Centrally located in Milton Keynes with good transport links
• Serves a mix of leisure and business guests, making roles varied and interesting
• Close to attractions, shopping, and green spaces, supporting work–life balance

💬 People‑First Leadership

• Managers who are approachable and invested in colleague development
• Open communication and encouragement for ideas and feedback
• A focus on growing talent internally rather than just filling roles

Overall, Novotel Milton Keynes stands out because it combines career growth, supportive leadership, global brand advantages, and a welcoming team culture, making it a place where people can genuinely enjoy coming to work and build a long‑term hospitality career.

Job Title: Kitchen Porter / Pot Washer

Job Purpose

To maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene within the kitchen by ensuring all pots, pans, utensils, crockery, and kitchen equipment are cleaned and stored correctly. The role also includes assisting chefs with basic food preparation and simple cooking tasks as required.

Key Responsibilities

Pot Wash & Cleaning Duties

• Wash and sanitize pots, pans, trays, utensils, and kitchen equipment.
• Operate dishwashing equipment safely and efficiently.
• Maintain cleanliness of sinks, washing areas, floors, and kitchen surfaces.
• Dispose of waste and recycling in line with company procedures.
• Ensure cleaning schedules are completed accurately and on time.
• Follow all food safety, hygiene, and health & safety procedures.

Kitchen Support Duties

• Assist chefs with basic food preparation tasks such as peeling, chopping, and portioning ingredients.
• Support the preparation of simple menu items under supervision.
• Help with stock rotation and storage following FIFO procedures.
• Transport deliveries and store goods in the correct locations.
• Ensure kitchen equipment and workstations are kept clean and organised.

Cooking Duties

• Prepare and cook simple food items as instructed by the Chef or Kitchen Manager.
• Assist in food service during busy periods.
• Follow recipes, portion controls, and presentation standards.
• Monitor food quality and report any issues to senior kitchen staff.

Skills and Experience

• Previous kitchen porter, pot wash, or catering experience preferred but not essential.
• Basic understanding of food hygiene and kitchen safety.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Good teamwork and communication skills.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to follow instructions.
• Willingness to learn basic cooking skills and support the wider kitchen team.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry kitchen equipment and supplies safely.
• Comfortable working in a busy and sometimes hot kitchen environment.

Reporting To

Head Chef / Kitchen Manager

Main Objective

To provide effective cleaning and kitchen support services while assisting with basic food preparation and cooking duties, ensuring the kitchen operates efficiently and maintains excellent hygiene and food quality standards.

Essential Qualifications

• No formal qualifications required.
• Basic literacy and numeracy skills.
• Ability to follow instructions and health & safety procedures.
• Right to work in the UK (if applicable).

Desirable Qualifications

• Level 1 or Level 2 Food Safety & Hygiene Certificate.
• Basic Health & Safety Awareness training.
• Previous experience in a kitchen, catering, hospitality, or cleaning role.
• Manual handling training.

Skills & Attributes

• Good time management.
• Reliable and punctual.
• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Strong work ethic and attention to cleanliness.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to learn basic food preparation and cooking skills.

Workplace Culture

Warm, inclusive, and team‑driven

• A genuine “one team” culture where departments support each other
• Colleagues are encouraged to be themselves and feel respected and valued
• Strong focus on inclusivity, diversity, and equal opportunity

People‑first leadership

• Approachable managers who listen, coach, and develop their teams
• Open communication and regular feedback, with ideas welcomed from all levels
• Emphasis on recognition, trust, and celebrating success

Proud hospitality mindset

• Shared pride in delivering great guest experiences
• A fast‑paced, energetic environment where no two days are the same
• Strong sense of belonging and loyalty among long‑serving colleagues

🎁 Perks & Benefits

Accor global benefits

• Discounted hotel stays and food & beverage across Accor hotels worldwide
• Access to Accor’s international career opportunities and internal job mobility
• Use of Accor’s learning platforms and professional development programmes

Career growth & learning

• On‑the‑job training, cross‑department exposure, and structured development
• Opportunities for promotions and progression within the hotel
• Support for apprenticeships and hospitality qualifications

Wellbeing & recognition

• A supportive approach to work–life balance where possible
• Recognition schemes that reward effort, performance, and teamwork
• A positive, respectful atmosphere that supports mental and emotional wellbeing

Local advantages

• Convenient Milton Keynes location with good transport links
• A mix of business and leisure guests, keeping work varied and engaging
• Friendly, community‑focused workplace with strong local identity