Head Chef

Avante Care and Support; Canterbury; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading care organization in Canterbury is seeking a Head Chef to lead their kitchen team in creating delicious and nutritious meals tailored to residents' dietary needs. The ideal candidate will have experience in kitchen management and a strong understanding of food hygiene standards. Competitive pay, training opportunities, and various employee perks are offered. Closing date for applications is 19 November 2025.

Benefits

Competitive pay

Free DBS check

Pension contributions

Free uniform

Ongoing training & development

24/7 access to virtual GP & counselling services

Life Assurance

Employee of the Month recognition

Exclusive discounts at over 800 retailers

Qualifications

• Proven experience running a kitchen and managing a team.
• A strong understanding of elderly dietary needs and food hygiene standards.
• A friendly, reliable, and flexible approach to work.

Responsibilities

• Lead, inspire, and support a dedicated kitchen team.
• Plan and prepare menus that are balanced, varied, and seasonal.
• Maintain the highest standards of food hygiene and safety.
• Ensure every dish is served with care, creativity, and compassion.

Skills

Kitchen management

Food hygiene standards

Menu planning

Team leadership

Elderly dietary needs

Education

Relevant catering qualifications (Level 2 or above)

Job description

Head Chef – Make a Difference Every Day!

Location: Chaucer House, Canterbury, Kent

Organisation: Avante Care & Support

Are you passionate about creating delicious, nourishing food that truly makes people’s day?

At Avante Care & Support, we believe mealtimes are about more than just food — they’re moments of comfort, connection, and joy. As a Head Chef, you’ll lead our talented kitchen team to craft meals that bring warmth and happiness to the lives of our residents.

What You’ll Do

At our dementia care home, you’ll take pride in designing and delivering nutritious, beautifully presented meals that reflect our residents’ individual tastes, cultural backgrounds, and dietary needs.

• Lead, inspire, and support a dedicated kitchen team
• Plan and prepare menus that are balanced, varied, and seasonal
• Maintain the highest standards of food hygiene and safety
• Ensure every dish is served with care, creativity, and compassion

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience running a kitchen and managing a team
• A strong understanding of elderly dietary needs and food hygiene standards
• Relevant catering qualifications (Level 2 or above)
• A friendly, reliable, and flexible approach to work, even better if you have previous experience in social care

What We Offer

• Competitive pay and free DBS check
• Pension contributions and free uniform
• Ongoing training & development to grow your career
• 24/7 access to virtual GP & counselling services
• Life Assurance for peace of mind
• Employee of the Month and Sparkle Awards recognition
• Exclusive discounts at over 800 retailers

Ready to Cook Up Something Amazing?

Apply today and bring your passion for food and people to Avante Care & Support.

Closing Date: 19 November 2025

All roles are subject to an Enhanced DBS Disclosure. We thank all applicants for their interest; shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.