About the role

Our ambitious plans for the future will involve a £15m investment in new nursing and residential homes in the Norfolk area so we will shortly have openings for exceptional head chefs.

As a Head Chef, you will play a crucial role in providing nutritious and well-balanced meals for residents while ensuring a high standard of culinary excellence. You will be responsible for managing the kitchen staff, overseeing food preparation, menu planning, and maintaining compliance with relevant health and safety regulations. In addition to cultivating a positive dining atmosphere for residents and catering to their special dietary requirements, this role encompasses crucial responsibilities. You will play a pivotal role in staff training, ensuring a commitment to health and safety standards, and upholding a pristine and well-organised kitchen environment. 

Reports to: Home Manager

Key duties and responsibilities

• Create nutritionally balanced and varied menus that cater to the dietary requirements and preferences of residents.
• Consider special dietary needs, allergies, and cultural preferences when planning menus.
• Oversee the preparation and cooking of meals, ensuring they meet high-quality standards.
• Monitor portion control to prevent waste while maintaining resident satisfaction.
• Supervise kitchen staff, including chefs, cooks, and kitchen assistants.
• Schedule shifts, assign tasks, and manage staff performance to maintain a well-functioning kitchen.
• Train and educate kitchen staff on food safety, hygiene, and proper cooking techniques.
• Conduct regular inspections to ensure food quality, safety, and hygiene standards are consistently met.
• Address and rectify any issues related to food preparation, presentation, or taste.
• Work within budget constraints to source high-quality ingredients while minimising waste.
• Monitor and control kitchen expenses, including food and equipment costs.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations and food hygiene standards.
• Implement and maintain proper sanitation practices within the kitchen area.
• Collaborate with care home staff, including nursing and support teams, to understand residents' dietary needs and preferences.
• Participate in resident assessments to tailor menus to individual requirements.
• Plan and execute special meals or events, such as birthdays or holidays, to enhance the overall dining experience for residents.
• Stay updated on culinary trends, nutritional guidelines, and industry best practices.
• Implement improvements to enhance the overall quality and variety of meals offered.
• Attend and participate in staff meetings and training sessions as required.
• Build positive relationships with residents and their families, and respond promptly to their feedback and requests.

Skills and attributes

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Executive Chef in a similar setting.
• Culinary degree or relevant certification.
• Knowledge of nutrition, dietary needs, and food safety regulations.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with other departments within the care home.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage time effectively and work efficiently under pressure.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations and procedures.
• Ability to train and supervise kitchen staff.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.

Education and qualification

NVQ Level 3 in Catering or equivalent qualification, desirable.

What will you gain?

You will have the satisfaction of working with, and being supported by, an enthusiastic and caring team that puts people at the heart of the business. We know the happiness of our staff improves the service we give our residents. You will have plenty of opportunities to learn and develop your skills, and we have the procedures and processes to help you at every step.

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