Chef Manager - Care Home

HR-CL Limited; Woking; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading care home service provider in the United Kingdom is seeking a talented Chef Manager to lead their kitchen team. In this rewarding role, you will oversee menu planning, staff supervision, and ensure high standards of food quality and hygiene. You will enjoy sociable working hours with no late nights and have the chance to make a significant impact on residents' lives. Competitive salary and various benefits offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Free meals on duty

Training and development opportunities

28 days holiday

Life insurance

Qualifications

• Previous experience as Chef Manager, Head Chef, or Sous Chef in care home or contract catering.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills required.
• Must have excellent understanding of food safety and allergen management.

Responsibilities

• Lead and motivate the kitchen team to deliver exceptional food.
• Plan and prepare seasonal menus tailored to residents' needs.
• Ensure dietary requirements and nutritional standards are met.
• Manage stock control, ordering, and kitchen budgets.
• Maintain high standards of food hygiene and health & safety.

Skills

Leadership

Organisational Skills

Fresh Cooking Passion

Food Safety Understanding

Team-focused Approach

Education

Relevant Catering Qualifications (e.g. NVQ Level 2/3, City & Guilds 706/1 & 2)

Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate

Job description

About the Role

We’re looking for a talented and caring Chef Manager to lead the kitchen team of a flagship care home. You’ll take pride in delivering fresh, nutritious, and beautifully presented meals that enhance the wellbeing of our residents every day.

As Chef Manager, you’ll be responsible for the smooth day-to-day running of the kitchen — from menu planning and staff supervision to ensuring every dish meets our high standards for taste, nutrition, and presentation.

This is the perfect opportunity for an experienced chef who wants to make a real difference in a rewarding, community-focused environment — without the late nights or high-pressure restaurant hours.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, train, and motivate the kitchen team to deliver exceptional food and service
• Plan and prepare seasonal, balanced menus tailored to residents’ needs and preferences
• Ensure all dietary requirements, allergens, and nutritional standards are met
• Manage stock control, ordering, and kitchen budgets effectively
• Maintain high standards of food hygiene, cleanliness, and health & safety compliance
• Support special occasions, themed events, and celebrations within the home
• Build positive relationships with residents, families, and colleagues

What We’re Looking For

• Previous experience as a Chef Manager, Head Chef, or Sous Chef in a care home, education, or contract catering setting
• Strong leadership and organisational skills
• A passion for fresh, wholesome cooking and resident wellbeing
• Excellent understanding of food safety and allergen management
• Relevant catering qualifications (e.g. NVQ Level 2 / 3, City & Guilds 706 / 1 & 2)
• Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate (or willingness to obtain)
• A caring, positive attitude and team-focused approach

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and great company benefits
• Sociable working hours – no late nights!
• Free meals on duty
• Training and development opportunities
• Supportive, welcoming team environment
• The chance to make a real difference in residents’ daily lives
• Life insurance
• 28 days holiday