Head Chef - Balanced 4/5 Day Week, Kitchen Autonomy

Barchester-Healthcare; Ringwood; On-site; GBP 54,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus for CQC Excellence up to £500

Refer a Friend up to £500

Discounts with major brands

Access to medical specialists

Counselling services

Tax code review service

Staff monthly lottery

Job summary

Barchester Healthcare is seeking a Head Chef to lead and inspire a kitchen and dining team across home settings. You will develop menus that prioritise fresh seasonal produce, nutrition, and resident wellbeing while maintaining high standards of service.

You will balance budget control, stock audits and HACCP/COSHH compliance, while delivering restaurant-style hospitality and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for residents and staff alike.

Qualifications

• Experience in leading, motivating and inspiring a team.
• Experience with fresh seasonal food and nutrition.
• Ability to create a warm, welcoming environment in homes.
• Confidence engaging with residents to design appetising menus.

Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate and upskill the kitchen and front of house teams.
• Develop menus tailored to residents and deliver high quality dishes.
• Prepare fresh bakes and oversee stock and budget audits.
• Support front of house in dining room setups and service.
• Maintain high standards of HACCP, hygiene and safety.

Skills

Personable approach

Team leadership

Menu development

Nutrition knowledge

Front of house coordination

HACCP & COSHH

IDDSI modified diets

Education

City & Guilds / NVQ / SVQ or equivalent

Job description

Barchester Healthcare is seeking a Head Chef to lead and inspire a kitchen and dining team across home settings. You will develop menus that prioritise fresh seasonal produce, nutrition, and resident wellbeing while maintaining high standards of service.

You will balance budget control, stock audits and HACCP/COSHH compliance, while delivering restaurant-style hospitality and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for residents and staff alike.