Head Chef & Catering Manager – Care Home

Jewish Care; Court; On-site; CHF 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Jewish Care is seeking a Unit Catering Manager to lead a small team in Bern, delivering high-quality meals that meet dietary and cultural needs. The role blends hands-on cooking (80%) with operational leadership (20%), focusing on menu development, cost control, and superb resident service in a care setting.

You will manage shifts, ensure food safety, leverage EPOS and scheduling systems, and mentor staff to maintain exceptional standards while supporting our mission to provide compassionate

Qualifications

• City of Guilds 706 1/2 or equivalent (Desirable)
• NVQ Level 2 or 3 in relevant fields (Essential)
• Proven experience as a Chef and in managing catering operations, preferably in a care home or similar environment (Essential)
• At least five years’ experience in a busy kitchen (Essential)
• Awareness of COSHH (Essential)
• Experience working to deadlines and adhering to budgetary requirements (Essential)
• Takes responsibility for own work and making improvements where possible (Essential)
• Awareness of waste disposal techniques and infection control (Essential)
• Working knowledge of Health and Safety legislation (Essential)
• Exceptional culinary skills with a strong understanding of dietary needs and restrictions (Essential)
• Excellent Communication Skills, Both Written And Verbal (Essential)
• IT Literacy – with an ability to pick up new systems with ease (Essential)
• Ability to communicate and manage interpersonal relationships, including influencing skills (Essential)
• Strong client-facing skills with a commitment to excellent customer service (Essential)
• Proficient in using EPOS systems and other relevant software (Desirable)
• Excellent Organizational And Time-management Skills (Essential)
• Ability to lead and manage a team effectively (Essential)
• Strong Financial Acumen With Experience In Budget Management (Essential)

Responsibilities

• Preparing, cooking, and present high-quality meals tailored to residents' dietary needs.
• Developing and managing menus using the Indicator Menu & Recipe Management System.
• Ensuring strict compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.
• Engaging with residents and families to understand and cater to dietary preferences and requirements.
• Maintaining high levels of customer service, ensuring resident satisfaction.
• Addressing any concerns or complaints promptly and professionally.
• Overseeing day-to-day catering operations, ensuring smooth service delivery.
• Managing the EPOS system for accurate billing and inventory tracking.
• Implement and manage the Future Workforce Management System for optimal staff scheduling.
• Managing stock control, including ordering supplies, maintaining inventory, and reducing wastage.
• Ensuring efficient processing and management of invoices.
• Leading, mentoring, and motivating the catering team, fostering a positive working environment.
• Developing staff rotas to ensure adequate coverage and efficient operation.
• Providing ongoing training and development opportunities for team members.
• Monitoring and managing the catering budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness and financial efficiency.
• Conducting regular financial reporting and analysis to track performance against budget.

Skills

Excellent communication

IT literacy

Client-facing

Budget management

Team leadership

Education

City & Guilds 706 1/2 (Desirable)

NVQ Level 2

NVQ Level 3

Tools

EPOS systems

Menu management software

Job description

Jewish Care is seeking a Unit Catering Manager to lead a small team in Bern, delivering high-quality meals that meet dietary and cultural needs. The role blends hands-on cooking (80%) with operational leadership (20%), focusing on menu development, cost control, and superb resident service in a care setting.

You will manage shifts, ensure food safety, leverage EPOS and scheduling systems, and mentor staff to maintain exceptional standards while supporting our mission to provide compassionate