Head Chef

www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk - Jobboard; East Hampshire; On-site; GBP 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected care facility in East Hampshire is seeking a passionate Head Chef to lead its kitchen team. The role involves creating seasonal menus, overseeing food preparation, and ensuring the highest standards of food hygiene and nutrition for residents, particularly older adults. This position offers a competitive salary of £34,500 per annum, daytime hours for a good work-life balance, and opportunities for training and development.

Benefits

Company pension scheme

Training and development

Free onsite parking

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef.
• Strong knowledge of dietary needs, allergens, and nutrition.
• Excellent leadership, organisation, and team management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the day-to-day operation of the kitchen.
• Create seasonal menus tailored to residents' needs.
• Supervise, train, and support the kitchen team.

Skills

Leadership skills

Knowledge of dietary needs

Cooking skills

Team management

Food hygiene certification

Job description

Head Chef | £34,500 | Care Home

Salary: £34,500 per annum | Day Shifts | Pension + Training + Free Parking

A welcoming and highly regarded care home for older adults is seeking a passionate and experienced Head Chef to lead its kitchen team. The home provides nursing and dementia care in a bright, homely environment and is proud to serve nutritious, freshly prepared meals that enhance residents’ health and wellbeing.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a talented chef who wants to bring creativity, leadership, and care to a role with real purpose. You'll have the autonomy to design seasonal menus and lead a supportive team in delivering high-quality meals in a calm, well-equipped kitchen.

As Head Chef, you’ll be responsible for the planning, preparation, and service of wholesome meals tailored to the nutritional needs and preferences of older adults—including those living with dementia.

You’ll work closely with the care and management team to ensure mealtimes are enjoyable, inclusive, and support overall wellbeing.

What You’ll Need

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef in a care home, hospitality, or contract catering setting
• Strong knowledge of dietary needs, allergens, and nutrition, especially for older adults
• A passion for home-style, flavourful cooking using fresh ingredients
• Excellent leadership, organisation, and team management skills
• Relevant Food Hygiene & Health & Safety certifications

What’s on Offer

• £34,500 per annum – competitive salary for full-time hours
• Company pension scheme
• Training and development to support your growth
• Free onsite parking
• Daytime hours – work/life balance in a respectful and supportive workplace
• The chance to make a meaningful difference in residents’ daily lives

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the day-to-day operation of the kitchen
• Create seasonal menus that are nutritious, appealing, and meet residents' individual dietary needs
• Oversee food preparation, presentation, portion control, and hygiene standards
• Order supplies and manage kitchen budgets effectively
• Maintain food safety standards in line with current legislation
• Work collaboratively with care staff to support person-centred dining experiences
• Supervise, train, and support the kitchen team

Reference: WILL152066/JR

INDACC