Traveling Regional Care Kitchen Lead

Avery Healthcare Group; Ashford; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

DBS check funded

Travel across Kent region

Training and development opportunities

Job summary

Avery Healthcare Group is seeking a Regional Bank Chef to lead culinary operations across our Kent region homes. You will manage a team, plan nutritionally balanced menus, and ensure safe, high-quality meals while keeping within budget.

You will travel between homes, supervise kitchen and host teams, and maintain records for inspections. Our ideal candidate has 5+ years in busy kitchens, strong health and safety knowledge, and relevant catering qualifications.

Qualifications

• Experience managing a busy kitchen with 5+ years in culinary roles.
• Knowledge of health and safety and current food safety legislation.
• Knowledge of COSHH and cleaning to 5-star rating standards.
• NVQ3 in Food Production or City & Guilds catering qualifications.
• Trained in IDDSI / textured modified diets.
• Ability to lead and work as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of the culinary department across multiple homes.
• Prepare nutritionally balanced menu plans for Home Manager approval.
• Consider special dietary needs and retain records for inspection.
• Place food orders with approved suppliers within budget and stock controls.
• Travel to Avery homes across the Kent region to supervise kitchens.
• Supervise and direct kitchen staff and host team; demonstrate safe preparation.
• Instruct unqualified staff and ensure high hygiene standards per Avery Food Safety System.

Skills

Kitchen management

Leadership

Health & safety

COSHH

NVQ3 Food Production

IDDSI training

Team collaboration

Education

NVQ3 / Catering qualifications

Tools

Food safety system

Job description

Avery Healthcare Group is seeking a Regional Bank Chef to lead culinary operations across our Kent region homes. You will manage a team, plan nutritionally balanced menus, and ensure safe, high-quality meals while keeping within budget.

You will travel between homes, supervise kitchen and host teams, and maintain records for inspections. Our ideal candidate has 5+ years in busy kitchens, strong health and safety knowledge, and relevant catering qualifications.