Head Cook – Resident-Centred Kitchen Leader

Marlacourt Limited; Southampton; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Oaklands Rest Home is seeking a Head Cook to lead the kitchen, plan menus, manage ordering and stock, oversee hygiene, and support supervision of kitchen staff. You will ensure meals are nutritious, well-presented and meet residents’ dietary needs.

The role is hands-on with leadership responsibilities requiring collaboration with care teams to provide dignified, enjoyable mealtimes while upholding high cleanliness and safety standards.

Qualifications

• Previous experience cooking in a professional kitchen or care setting.
• Strong understanding of food hygiene, safety and safe kitchen practice.
• Ability to prepare nutritious, appetising and varied meals.
• Ability to lead and guide kitchen colleagues.
• Confident in menu planning for resident needs.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support the kitchen team day to day and manage rotas.
• Prepare and cook meals, ensuring quality and appropriate portioning.
• Create, review and update menus, considering resident preferences and dietary needs.
• Ensure food safety standards, audits and records are maintained.
• Order supplies, manage stock, and liaise with suppliers within budget.
• Communicate clearly with care teams and residents to support mealtime experience.
• Support safeguarding and resident wellbeing through safe kitchen practices.

Skills

Food hygiene

Leadership

Menu planning

Stock control

Staff training

Education

Food hygiene certificate

Job description

Oaklands Rest Home is seeking a Head Cook to lead the kitchen, plan menus, manage ordering and stock, oversee hygiene, and support supervision of kitchen staff. You will ensure meals are nutritious, well-presented and meet residents’ dietary needs.

The role is hands-on with leadership responsibilities requiring collaboration with care teams to provide dignified, enjoyable mealtimes while upholding high cleanliness and safety standards.