Lead Cook/Chef - Cogydd Arweiniol (101069) Lead Cook/Chef - Cogydd Arweiniol

Wales & West Housing Association; Bryn Awelon; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading housing provider in Wales is seeking a passionate Lead Cook/Chef to enhance residents' lives by delivering high-quality catering services. This role involves managing kitchen operations, creating nutritious menus, and ensuring food safety. Ideal candidates will have proven cooking experience, excellent cooking skills, and strong leadership abilities. The position offers a competitive salary, daytime shifts, and generous benefits including ample annual leave and wellbeing support.

Benefits

Competitive salary

25 days annual leave, increasing to 30

Defined Contribution pension

Comprehensive wellbeing support

Regular feedback and training

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Cook/Chef working with fresh food.
• Excellent cooking skills, including baking and dessert preparation.
• Previous experience supervising staff or leading a team.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• A passion for food quality, service excellence, and operational efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen in delivering a lunchtime-only service using fresh ingredients.
• Manage daily operations, including staffing and stock ordering.
• Create varied menus catering to residents' preferences and dietary needs.
• Build relationships with residents and catering teams.
• Monitor service quality and drive continuous improvement.

Skills

Cooking skills

Team leadership

Communication skills

Job description

Are you passionate about food and making a positive impact on people's lives? We have an exciting opportunity for you to join our team as our Lead Cook/Chef at our Extra Care Scheme in Llys Jasmine, Mold. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who wants to enhance the lives of residents and communities across Wales by leading a high-quality catering service that delivers outstanding food and nutritious, freshly prepared meals.

Responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen in delivering a lunchtime-only service using fresh ingredients and cooking from scratch.
• Manage daily operations, including staffing, stock ordering, and compliance with food safety and health regulations.
• Create varied menus that cater to residents' preferences, nutritional needs, and special dietary requirements.
• Build strong relationships with residents, catering teams, and Extra Care Managers to ensure a seamless service.
• Monitor service quality, respond to feedback, and drive continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Cook/Chef working with fresh food.
• Excellent cooking skills, including baking and dessert preparation.
• Previous experience supervising staff or leading a team.
• Strong communication and relationship‑building skills.
• A passion for food quality, service excellence, and operational efficiency.

About the Company

We are one of the leading housing providers in Wales, providing affordable homes and services to more than 24,000 residents in over 12,500 properties across Wales. We formed a Group company in 2011, to include Cambria Maintenance Ltd. We employ over 450 staff at WWH and over 190 staff in Cambria, making us a major Welsh employer. We are proud to be a multi award‑winning organisation, recognised as a 3 World Class Best Company and Investors In People Platinum – the first in Wales. Find out more about us on our website.

Benefits and Compensation

• £29,157 – £32,091 per annum
• 37 hours per week
• Daytime shifts only – no late nights or split shifts, giving you time to enjoy your evenings and maintain a healthy routine.
• Regular weekends off – perfect for spending quality time with family, relaxing, or pursuing your hobbies. Real work‑life balance!
• Defined Contribution pension, including 3x death in service life insurance cover
• You will start with 25 days of annual leave, which increases to 30 days with length of service. You'll also have the flexibility to buy or sell up to 5 days (pro rata), plus additional time off for volunteering, health screening and other wellbeing activities – giving you the freedom to balance work with what matters most to you.
• Regular feedback, training and support from your manager and team.
• Access to comprehensive wellbeing support, including a generous sick pay scheme, critical illness cover, and a cash plan benefit to help with everyday healthcare costs. Plus, you'll have 24/7 access to a confidential employee assistance and counselling service, offering practical advice and emotional support whenever you need it.