Job Description

Head Chef -

PLEASE ONLY APPLY IF GENUINELY INTERESTED AND HAVE THE RELEVANT EXPERIENCE.

We are seeking an experienced, creative, and highly organised

Head Chef

to lead our kitchen team within our

60-bedded care home

. In this role, you will oversee the full operation of the kitchen, ensuring all meals are prepared to exceptional standards and in line with residents' nutritional and dietary needs. You will inspire and lead the kitchen team, bringing both creativity and strong leadership into every service. The ideal candidate will demonstrate passion for high-quality food, commitment to food safety, and the ability to thrive under pressure.

Key Responsibilities

Lead, manage, and motivate the kitchen team, including training, supervision, scheduling, and performance management. Plan and develop innovative, nutritious menus in collaboration with the management team, ensuring variety and resident satisfaction. Ensure all food preparation, cooking, and storage complies with food safety, hygiene, and environmental health standards. Oversee the preparation and presentation of all meals, ensuring consistency, quality, and timely service. Manage stock control, monitor inventory levels, and order supplies cost-effectively. Ensure the kitchen environment remains clean, safe, compliant, and well-organised at all times. Work collaboratively with front-of-house teams, care staff, and management to support a smooth service and excellent dining experience. Remain informed about culinary trends, new techniques, and best practices to enhance menu offerings. Demonstrate calm, effective decision-making during busy periods, unexpected changes, or operational pressures. Support special dietary requirements, including modified texture diets for elderly residents.

Effectively manage the kitchen budget

, including food ordering, cost control, minimising waste, and ensuring value for money.

Experience & Skills Required

Proven experience as a Chef -- experience in a care home or educational setting is highly desirable. Strong understanding of kitchen operations, food production, cooking methods, and sanitation guidelines.

Excellent leadership skills

with the ability to inspire, coach, and develop a team.

Ability to work effectively under pressure

in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high quality standards.

Creativity and passion for producing well-balanced, visually appealing dishes.

Strong communication, organisation, and time-management skills. Experience with modified diet plans, including IDDSI levels, is advantageous.
If you are a talented and motivated Head Chef looking for an exciting opportunity to showcase your skills in a supportive and rewarding

60-bedded care home

, we would love to hear from you.

Apply today!

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 17.00 per hour

Benefits:

Company pension Discounted or free food Free parking On-site parking
Experience:

Care home: 1 year (required) Chef: 2 years (preferred) Cooking: 1 year (required)
Work Location: In person