Head Chef

Job summary

Head Chef – Chorleywood, Rickmansworth

Location: Burford House Care Home, Rickmansworth Road, Chorleywood, WD3 5SQ

Salary: £40,000 to £42,000 per annum. Dependent on experience and qualifications

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 Burford House Care Home.

Burford House combines modern design with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Boasting 46 private rooms and luxurious communal spaces, the home 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.

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

Why work at Westgate?

• Competitive pay rates with enhanced pay on bank holidays
• Improve your financial wellness and flexibility with Wagestream; access your wages before pay day and enjoy exclusive discounts at a variety of the UK’s favourite shops
• Access to the Blue Light Card (employee discount scheme)
• Access to other discount schemes; Byond Prepayment Card (employee cashback card), Extras Discounts (employee discount scheme) and Cycle to Work Scheme
• Refer a Friend Scheme - earn up to £500 for a successful referral!
• Internal and external employee recognition schemes (e.g. Employee of the Month and Long Service) and team building social events
• Support in achieving additional qualifications, including nationally recognised qualifications
• Access to financial and wellbeing support through The Care Workers Charity 
• Comprehensive staff induction with free training and professional development

Please note:  We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if sufficient applications are received. Due to the high volume of applications, if you do not hear from us within 5 working days, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.

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

WGHROB