Job Description
Head Chef – Culinary Wizard Wanted!
Are you a creative and passionate chef with a flair for delivering exceptional meals? Do you thrive in leading a kitchen with precision, care, and enthusiasm?
We’re looking for an inspiring Head Chef to take the reins of our care home’s kitchen. This is more than just cooking – it’s about crafting delicious, nutritious meals that bring joy and comfort to our residents every single day. If you’re a culinary leader who takes pride in fresh, seasonal ingredients and high-quality dishes, this is your opportunity to shine!
Why This Role Matters
As Head Chef, you’ll be the driving force behind our kitchen operations, ensuring every meal is prepared with love and meets the highest standards of nutrition, taste, and presentation. Your leadership will foster an efficient, professional, and welcoming kitchen environment, making a real difference in the lives of those we care for.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Culinary Excellence: Prepare, cook, and serve delicious hot and cold meals tailored to residents’ dietary needs and preferences.
- Menu Innovation: Collaborate with the Group Executive Chef & Home Manager to design nutritious, cost-effective menus using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Kitchen Leadership: Guide, supervise, and support kitchen staff, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations.
- Training & Development: Conduct Basic Food Hygiene training for care staff involved in food handling, ensuring best practices are upheld.
- Quality Assurance: Maintain accurate records of food supplies, monitor fridge/freezer temperatures, and oversee stock management.
- Health & Safety: Ensure all kitchen and dining areas meet statutory Health & Safety standards, providing a safe, clean, and hygienic environment.
- Team Management: Plan kitchen staff rotas, oversee recruitment, and foster a strong, cohesive team.
What You Need to Succeed as a Chef
- Leadership Skills: Ability to effectively lead a team and create an efficient, positive kitchen culture.
- Food Hygiene Knowledge: Basic Food Hygiene Certificate and awareness of food safety regulations.
- Strong Communication: Ability to liaise confidently with the Home Manager and kitchen staff.
- Problem Solver: Capable of working independently and taking initiative to enhance kitchen operations.
- Catering Experience: Ideally 2 years of catering experience with a focus on delivering high-quality meals.
- Specialized Knowledge: Experience in therapeutic and textured diets is advantageous.
- Creativity & Structure: Able to follow structured menus while adding a personal, creative touch.
Why Join Us?
- A Rewarding Role: Make a real difference in the lives of our residents by providing meals that nourish and delight.
- Supportive Team: Work in a friendly, professional environment with a collaborative team.
- Professional Growth: Enhance your skills and expertise with ongoing training and development opportunities.
- Job Satisfaction: Enjoy a fulfilling career where your culinary passion and leadership truly matter.
If you’re ready to step into a role where your skills and creativity will have a meaningful impact, we’d love to hear from you. Join us and become the heart of our care home kitchen!
Benefits
Contract Details
- Pension
- Onsite Parking
- Paid DBS
- Uniform Provided
- 5.6 Weeks Annual Leave (Based on a full-time contract)
