Head Chef - Carehome

Mansell Consulting Group Ltd; Braintree; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A care home recruitment agency in the UK is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen team in a residential setting. This role involves delivering nutritious and balanced meals while ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. The ideal candidate will have experience in menu planning and a strong understanding of special diets. The job offers 28 days paid holiday, a pension scheme, and career development opportunities.

Benefits

28 days paid holiday

Pension scheme

Free DBS and uniform

Employee Assistance Programme

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Chef in a care or hospitality environment.
• Strong understanding of special diets, nutrition, and allergen management.
• Skilled in menu planning, costing, and budget control.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver high-quality, nutritious menus.
• Manage kitchen budgets and stock control.
• Lead and develop the kitchen team to achieve high standards.

Skills

Leadership

Menu planning

Food safety compliance

Nutrition understanding

Education

Intermediate or Advanced Food Hygiene Certification

Job description

Overview

MCG Recruitment are delighted to be supporting our valued care home client in the search for an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead the hospitality team within a high-quality residential care environment. This is a fantastic opportunity to deliver exceptional, restaurant-standard meals in a supportive care setting — without split shifts or long hours. The successful candidate will enjoy creative freedom in designing nutritious, balanced menus tailored to residents' preferences and dietary needs, ensuring every meal promotes health, comfort, and enjoyment.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver high-quality, nutritious menus that meet residents\' individual dietary requirements.
• Manage kitchen budgets, stock control, and ensure all staff are trained on dish specifications and food safety.
• Lead, motivate, and develop the kitchen team to consistently achieve high standards of food quality and presentation.
• Ensure full compliance with all health, safety, and hygiene regulations (including HACCP).
• Collaborate with management to adapt menus to meet individual care and nutrition plans.
• Monitor food quality, presentation, and portion control to ensure resident satisfaction.

About You

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Chef in a care, hospitality, or similar environment.
• Intermediate or Advanced Food Hygiene Certification.
• Strong understanding of special diets, nutrition, and allergen management.
• Skilled in menu planning, costing, and budget control.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team development abilities.

Benefits

• 28 days paid holiday and weekly pay
• Pension scheme and access to a range of staff discounts
• Free DBS, uniform, and on-site parking
• Employee Assistance Programme (including family access)
• Career development and training opportunities (including NVQ qualifications)
• Recognition awards and ongoing staff appreciation initiatives #MCG1