Head Chef

Cedar Lodge and The Limes Care Home; Taunton; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare facility in Taunton is seeking a passionate Head Chef to manage all kitchen operations. This role requires strong leadership and culinary skills to deliver high-quality meals tailored to residents' dietary needs. The ideal candidate should have relevant culinary qualifications and experience in a kitchen environment. Additional benefits include a competitive salary, DBS, and annual leave.

Benefits

Paid DBS

Pension scheme

Uniform provided

5.6 weeks annual leave

Qualifications

• Experience managing a kitchen team.
• Sound understanding of food safety standards.
• Experience in a healthcare setting is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the kitchen to ensure well-balanced meals.
• Manage menu planning, food preparation, and stock management.
• Supervise kitchen staff and maintain food hygiene standards.

Skills

Strong leadership skills

Excellent communication skills

Organisational skills

Proactive attitude

Education

City & Guilds 706 1 & 2 or equivalent culinary qualification

Basic Food Hygiene Certificate

Job description

Head Chef

Catering and Hospitality - Cedar Lodge and The Limes Care Home

Contract : Full Time

Salary : £13.85 Per Hour

Shift Type : Days

Contracted hours : 38

Cedar Lodge and The Limes Dementia Care Home are located on the peaceful outskirts of Taunton, Somerset, overlooking a beautiful park. Thoughtfully designed for Dementia care, our homes provide a supportive and nurturing environment for up to 42 residents.

We are now seeking a talented and passionate Head Chef to lead our kitchen and deliver high-quality, nutritious meals that our residents can truly enjoy. This is an exciting opportunity for a culinary professional who takes pride in combining great food with compassion, organisation and leadership.

What We Offer

• £13.85 per hour
• Contracted to 38 hours per week
• Paid DBS, Pension scheme, Uniform provided
• 5.6 weeks annual leave (based on a full-time contract)

Your Role

As Head Chef, you will oversee all aspects of the kitchen to ensure residents enjoy delicious, well-balanced meals that meet their dietary needs and preferences. You will be responsible for menu planning, food preparation, stock management, staff supervision and maintaining the highest standards of food hygiene and safety. Working closely with the Home Manager and Group Executive Chef, you will plan and cost menus that make the most of fresh, seasonal ingredients within budget, ensuring variety and nutritional balance.

You will lead and support kitchen staff, providing clear guidance on food handling and hygiene procedures while ensuring the kitchen operates smoothly and efficiently. You’ll also manage ordering, stock rotation, and record keeping, including temperature checks and food safety logs. Regularly reviewing kitchen processes and training staff in best practice, you’ll help maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for both residents and colleagues.

What We’re Looking For

• City & Guilds 706 1 & 2 or equivalent culinary qualification (achieved or working towards)
• Strong leadership skills and experience managing a kitchen team
• Basic Food Hygiene Certificate and a sound understanding of food safety standards
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across departments
• A positive, proactive attitude with strong organisational skills
• Experience working in a care home or healthcare setting is desirable but not essential

About Us

Cedar Lodge and The Limes are part of Care Concern Group, a family-owned, market-leading care provider with over 100 homes across the United Kingdom. We are dedicated to delivering exceptional care and creating supportive workplaces where our teams can thrive.

Our five core values – Trust, Respect, Passion, Kindness and Inclusivity – define everything we do. If you share these values and take pride in creating meals that bring both nourishment and joy, we’d love to hear from you.