Head Chef – Care Kitchen Leader & Menu Innovator

TLC Care; Chipping Barnet; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

TLC Care is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen at one of our care homes, delivering high-quality meals for residents and ensuring strict hygiene standards are maintained.

You will recruit and develop kitchen staff, plan menus with dietary requirements (Kosher, Halal, vegan, vegetarian), manage food costs, orders and stock, and uphold food safety systems in line with regulations. This role offers opportunities to influence resident dining experiences within a supportive team.

Qualifications

• Good communication skills and team leadership required.
• Ability to work on own initiative in a busy kitchen.
• Strong interpersonal skills for staff and residents.
• Experience supervising kitchen staff and service delivery.
• Knowledge of dietary requirements and dietary accommodation.

Responsibilities

• Recruitment and development of kitchen team.
• Audit and ensure kitchen adheres to EHO/Hygiene standards.
• Plan menus, including Kosher, Halal, vegan and vegetarian options.
• Monitor and control food costs within budget.
• Prepare and serve meals ensuring high-quality standards.
• Manage ordering, stock takes and rota planning.
• Oversee food safety management systems and training.

Skills

Good communication

Own initiative

Team player

Education

City & Guilds Level 1 & 2 or equivalent

Basic Food Hygiene Certificate

Job description

TLC Care is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen at one of our care homes, delivering high-quality meals for residents and ensuring strict hygiene standards are maintained.

You will recruit and develop kitchen staff, plan menus with dietary requirements (Kosher, Halal, vegan, vegetarian), manage food costs, orders and stock, and uphold food safety systems in line with regulations. This role offers opportunities to influence resident dining experiences within a supportive team.