Head Chef – Borehamwood, Hertfordshire

Location: Meadowhill Care Home, Castleford Close, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, WD6 4AL

Salary: £40,000 to £42,000 per annum (depending on experience)

Hours: 40 hours per week

Job type: Permanent

Come and make a difference with the team at Westgate Healthcare! #CareWithUsAtWestgate

We believe that good food plays a crucial role in the well-being and happiness of our residents and are therefore, looking for a passionate and experienced Head Chef to lead our kitchen team at our newest care home, set to open its doors in early 2025.

Nestled in the heart of Borehamwood, Meadowhill Care Home combines modern design with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Boasting 75 private rooms and luxurious communal spaces, Meadowhill is tailored to meet the unique needs of residents in a safe and peaceful environment.

As the Head Chef, you will be responsible for the overall management of our kitchen, ensuring that every meal served is nutritious, delicious and tailored to the dietary needs of our residents.

You will work closely with our care staff to understand the specific requirements of our residents and create menus that are both appealing and nutritious.

The ideal candidate should have proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Chef, preferably within a care home or similar environment.

What's in it for you?

The Butterfly Benefits:

• Blue Light Card (employee discount scheme)
• Byond Prepayment Card (employee cashback card)
• Extras Discounts (employee discount scheme)
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Refer a Friend Scheme
• Employee of the month
• Team social events
• Staff wellness fund
• Loyalty and long-service awards

Employment Perks:

• Competitive salary
• Support in achieving additional qualifications, including nationally recognised qualifications
• Comprehensive induction with free training and development

About the role:

• Develop and prepare a variety of meals that cater to different dietary needs, including vegetarian, diabetic and soft food diets, while ensuring taste and presentation are of the highest standard
• Lead, train and inspire the kitchen team, ensuring high standards of food hygiene and safety are maintained at all times
• Manage kitchen inventory, order supplies and work within budgetary constraints while minimising waste
• Ensure the kitchen complies with all food safety regulations, conducting regular audits and maintaining accurate records
• Engage with residents to gather feedback, understand their preferences and incorporate this into meal planning
• Stay updated on culinary trends and introduce new dishes that enhance the dining experience for our residents
• Work with the Home Manager and Catering and Hospitality Manager to ensure our residents needs are continuously met

About you:

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Chef, preferably within a care home or similar environment
• Strong understanding of nutrition, special diets and food safety standards
• Excellent leadership and team management skills
• Ability to create varied and balanced menus that cater to individual dietary needs
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage budgets and stock levels effectively
• Passionate about delivering high-quality food and enhancing the dining experience for residents

If this sounds like the role for you, we would love to hear from you.

Apply today!

We reserve the right to close this vacancy once we receive suitable applications, therefore, an early submission is encouraged.

Due to a high volume of applications, if you do not hear from us within working days, please assume that your application has been unsuccessful.

Westgate Healthcare is an equal opportunities employer, and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age.

WGHROB