NHS Jobs
Head Chef – Care Home – Hampshire
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, motivate, and inspire a kitchen team, developing and upskilling where required.
- Menu development, tailoring to residents’ needs for person-centred hospitality.
- Work with fresh produce to deliver high-quality, wholesome dishes cooked to the highest standards.
- Bake fresh cakes, scones, and breads from scratch.
- Assist the front-of-house team with dining area setup.
- Work within budget, complete regular audits, and manage stock control.
- Create a warm, efficient, and fun kitchen environment.
- Ongoing recruitment and retention.
- Manage the performance of the kitchen and front-of-house teams.
Skills and Expertise
- Personable and warm approach with genuine interest in resident wellbeing.
- City & Guilds/NVQ/SVQ or equivalent qualifications.
- Experience leading, motivating, and inspiring a team.
- Experience working with fresh, seasonal food and understanding of nutrition.
- Ability to create a warm and welcoming environment.
- Confidence engaging with residents to create appetising and nutritious menus.
- Experience working with a front-of-house team.
- Good understanding of HACCP and COSHH.
- Knowledge of modified diets using the IDDSI framework (training provided if new to care).
Job Facilities/Benefits
- Working days and alternate weekends (4/5 days a week).
- Rewarding Excellence’ bonus (up to 500* for Good/Outstanding CQC inspection).
- Unlimited Refer a Friend’ scheme (up to 500* per referral).
- Retail and leisure discounts with big brands, supermarkets, and travel companies.
- Free access to medical specialists for second opinions.
- Confidential and free counselling and legal services.
- Tax Code Review Service.
- Monthly staff lottery.
- Barchester Chef Academy for skill development and knowledge sharing.
- Internal Learning and Development team offering industry-recognised apprenticeships and qualifications.