Head Chef

Hartford Care; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Be heard through Hartford Voice Forum

Occupational sick pay and annual pay

Life insurance and enhanced parental

Recruitment referral bonuses

Blue Light discounts

Free DBS check and NMC PIN

Salary sacrifice schemes and Wagest​re

Learning and development opportunities

Job summary

Hartford Care is seeking a dedicated Head Chef for a full-time role at Hartford Court, Portsmouth. You will be responsible for preparing wholesome meals for residents, planning weekly menus, and ensuring kitchen safety and efficiency in a warm, caring environment.

You will bring a Basic Food Hygiene Certificate and strong communication skills, with a focus on dietary needs and team collaboration. DBS clearance is required to work in this setting.

Qualifications

• Compassionate, caring nature.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Confidence with IT systems.
• Ability to prepare, cook, and present nutritious meals.
• Understanding of individual dietary needs.
• Team spirit and flexibility to adapt to a busy environment.
• DBS check required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare delicious, wholesome meals and snacks for residents.
• Keep the kitchen running smoothly and safely.
• Plan menus and host cooking activities with residents.
• Serve meals such as Sunday roast and special dishes.
• Contribute to a warm, caring kitchen environment.

Skills

Communication skills

Organisational skills

IT systems confidence

Team spirit

Flexibility

Caregiving mindset

Education

Basic Food Hygiene Certificate

Job description

Head Chef - Full-time (40 hours per week)

Location: Hartford Court - Portsmouth, Hampshire (PO3 6GN)

Join the Hartford Care Family - Where Every Meal Makes a Difference

Do you love creating home-cooked meals that make people smile? Are you passionate about fresh, nutritious food and want to make a real difference every single day?

At Hartford Care, we’re more than a care provider — we’re a family. We believe in Creating Communities, Caring for Each Other, and Celebrating Individuality. As our Chef, you’ll bring warmth, creativity, and heart to every dish you prepare. Not only that you can bring your culinary skills to a role where you do not need to work late into the night.

The Role

As a Chef, you’ll be at the heart of our home — preparing delicious, wholesome meals and snacks for our residents while keeping the kitchen running smoothly and safely.

From serving a comforting Sunday roast to hosting a bread-making session with residents or planning next week’s menu, you’ll put care and pride into everything you do.

If you’re caring, energetic, and have a great sense of humour, you’ll fit right in!

What You’ll Bring

• A compassionate, caring nature
• Basic Food Hygiene Certificate
• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• Confidence with IT systems
• The ability to prepare, cook, and present nutritious, appetising meals
• Understanding of individual dietary needs
• Team spirit and flexibility to adapt to a busy environment

This position is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

What You’ll Get

We believe in looking after the people who look after others. Here’s what’s waiting for you:

• Be heard through the Hartford Voice Forum
• Occupational sick pay and annual pay reviews
• Life insurance and enhanced parental leave pay
• Recruitment referral bonuses
• Blue Light discounts
• Free DBS check and NMC PIN reimbursement
• Salary sacrifice schemes and access to Wagestream (draw down earned pay before payday!)
• A wide range of learning and development opportunities

Ready to Cook Up a Career That Cares?

If you’re passionate about great food and want to make a real impact, we’d love to hear from you.