Head Chef
| Posting date: | 08 September 2025 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 08 October 2025 |
| Location: | Dorking |
| Company: | Willing Care Recruitment Limited |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 1378955944 |
Summary
Head Chef – Care Home Setting
Salary: £37,200 per annum
Full-time – 40 hours per week
Are you a passionate and experienced Head Chef looking for a rewarding role where your skills can truly make a difference?
Our client’s Nursing Home offers a warm, supportive environment committed to delivering outstanding person-centred care. This care home is seeking a talented Head Chef to lead the kitchen team and provide residents with nutritious, high-quality meals tailored to their individual needs.
As Head Chef, you’ll play a key role in maintaining high culinary standards, ensuring meals are delicious, well-presented, and aligned with the dietary needs of older adults. You’ll manage the day-to-day kitchen operations, lead a small team, and contribute directly to residents’ health, happiness, and quality of life.
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience as a Head Chef, ideally within a care home, nursing home, healthcare, or residential care setting.
- Strong knowledge of nutrition for older adults and modified diets (e.g. puree, soft foods).
- Familiarity with food safety regulations, kitchen hygiene, and infection control.
- NVQ Level 2/3 in Catering, Food Preparation, or equivalent (preferred).
- Excellent leadership, organisation, and time management skills.
What’s On Offer
- Access to a staff benefits platform with retail & lifestyle discounts
- Company pension scheme
- Ongoing training and opportunities for career development
- Recognition for long service and achievements
Key Responsibilities
- Menu Planning: Design seasonal menus that are nutritious, varied, and cater to residents' preferences and dietary requirements (e.g. soft diets, diabetic-friendly, allergen-aware).
- Meal Preparation: Prepare and serve fresh, well-balanced meals using quality ingredients.
- Food Safety & Hygiene: Ensure full compliance with health & safety and food hygiene standards.
- Inventory & Budget Management: Manage kitchen supplies efficiently to reduce waste and control costs.
- Team Supervision: Lead, train, and support kitchen staff to ensure smooth and effective operations.
- Resident Engagement: Interact with residents to gather feedback and personalise their dining experience.
Reference: WILL169413/JR
INDNUR