Head Chef – Care Home Dining Leader

Crystal Care Collection Limited; Maidstone; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full induction training programme

Paid breaks

Fully funded uniform

Fully funded Blue Light Card

Fully funded Enhanced DBS check

Job summary

Crystal Care Collection Limited is seeking an experienced Head Chef in Maidstone to lead the kitchen and deliver nutritious meals for residents. You will manage the team, budgets and stock while ensuring HACCP and safety standards are met, and collaborate with residents and relatives to tailor menus.

The role offers a full induction, paid breaks, funded uniform and safeguarding checks, with a permanent rolling rota and a 38.5-hour week.

Qualifications

• Experience as Head Chef or Senior Chef, preferably in care, hospitality or healthcare.
• Leads and develops kitchen team while delivering high-quality meals.
• Understands nutritional requirements and modified diets for older people.
• Manages catering budgets and stock control.
• Ensures compliance with food hygiene legislation and safety standards.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent organisation and budget management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare and cook nutritious, well-balanced meals that cater to residents' preferences and dietary needs.
• Lead, motivate and support the kitchen team, creating a positive working environment.
• Manage kitchen operations, budgets and food ordering to maintain quality while controlling costs.
• Ensure compliance with HACCP, Food Safety, Health & Safety, COSHH and Environmental Health regulations.
• Implement and monitor cleaning schedules to maintain high cleanliness.
• Oversee stock control and rotation with approved suppliers.
• Ensure all kitchen equipment is maintained in safe working order.
• Support recruitment, induction and development of catering staff with the General Manager.
• Engage with residents and relatives to gather feedback and improve dining experience.
• Attend team meetings and contribute to home success.

Skills

Leadership

People management

Budget management

Nutrition/dietary requirements

Food safety & HACCP

Menu planning

Communication with residents

Job description

Crystal Care Collection Limited is seeking an experienced Head Chef in Maidstone to lead the kitchen and deliver nutritious meals for residents. You will manage the team, budgets and stock while ensuring HACCP and safety standards are met, and collaborate with residents and relatives to tailor menus.

The role offers a full induction, paid breaks, funded uniform and safeguarding checks, with a permanent rolling rota and a 38.5-hour week.