Head Chef

Oakbank Care Home, located in the beautiful town of Crieff, Scotland, is seeking a talented Head Chef to bring creativity and flair to the kitchen, providing high-quality meals that truly make a difference to the lives of our 70 residents. This is your opportunity to be part of something special from the very beginning.

As part of Care Concern Group, a market-leading, family-owned care group with over 100 homes across the UK, the organisation is dedicated to providing fantastic care homes for its residents and fostering a positive, supportive environment for its team. This is more than just a job—it is a chance to lead a kitchen where your skills and creativity will shine.

What We Offer

• £33,280 per annum. (£16.00 per hour)
• Contracted to 40 hours per week
• Annual leave of 5.6 weeks (based on a full-time contract).
• A pension scheme to help you plan for the future.
• Paid PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) check to ensure your peace of mind.
• Uniform provided, so you can feel your best while you work.
• Health Assured Employee Assistance Programme, offering confidential support for your well-being.

Why You Will Enjoy Working Here

• Be part of something new: Help launch and lead a brand-new kitchen in a state-of-the-art care home where you can make your culinary vision a reality.
• Creative freedom: You will have the opportunity to design and implement menus that meet the nutritional needs of the residents while reflecting your personal style and creativity.
• Work-life balance: Enjoy a structured schedule that promotes a healthy work-life balance.
• Make an impact: Your work will directly contribute to the health and happiness of our residents, making every meal a special experience.
• Supportive environment: Join a friendly, professional team where your skills and leadership will be valued and supported.
• Care Concern Group values: Be part of a family-owned group that is dedicated to creating amazing care homes and fostering a positive, enjoyable work environment.

Your Role as Head Chef

• Lead the kitchen: Oversee food preparation, cooking, and service, ensuring every dish is prepared to the highest standards.
• Menu creation: Work with the Group Executive Chef and Home Manager to develop balanced, seasonal menus tailored to residents’ dietary needs and preferences.
• IDDSI & textured diets: Ensure meals meet IDDSI standards and cater to residents requiring modified textures.
• Team leadership: Lead and motivate the kitchen team, maintaining a positive and efficient working environment.
• Food safety & compliance: Ensure the kitchen follows all health, safety, and food safety regulations.
• Stock & budget control: Manage stock, monitor food costs, and use fresh ingredients efficiently to maintain high standards.

What We Are Looking For

• Qualifications: City & Guilds 706 "1 & 2 or equivalent (achieved or working towards).
• Food safety: Basic Food Hygiene Certificate.
• Experience: Previous experience as a Head Chef or in a kitchen leadership role.
• Passion for great food: A love for creating delicious, nutritious meals that will make a real impact.
• Leadership: Strong leadership skills and the ability to inspire your team.
• Specialist knowledge: A solid understanding of IDDSI and textured diets.
• Care sector experience: Experience in a care home or healthcare setting is a plus, but not essential.

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? If you are looking for a role where you can make a real impact, lead a fantastic team, and contribute to the health and happiness of our residents, we would love to hear from you.