Head Chef in Godalming

Birchgrove is an innovative build-to-rent operator, exclusively for the over 65s. We bring purpose to our work and make a meaningful difference to the lives of our colleagues and our customers. We put our colleagues and residents at the heart of everything that we do and love to make a difference. We’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and a Living Wage Employer. At Birchgrove, everyone’s contribution is valued, and we work together with warmth, respect, and purpose.

The Role

As Head Chef you will be expected to oversee the day-to-day operation of the kitchen and restaurant with your Sous Chef, on a Monday – Sunday Rota. Seen as a mentor to other members of staff you will assist the General Manager within the community. You will play a crucial role in the success of the restaurant by ensuring the delivery of high-quality food, managing kitchen operations, and maintaining a positive and productive work environment. The Head Chef manages all food production and must ensure that high standards and high customer satisfaction are delivered, all kitchen services are efficient, and that the required Health and Safety measures are in place and adhered to within the department. In addition, is responsible for ensuring that food presentation achieves high standards at all times, meeting both customer needs as well as budgetary guidelines. The role will take responsibility for maintaining and monitoring compliance with the relevant regulator and external stakeholders – EHO, HSE, etc.

The Person

The ideal applicant should ideally have:

• Experience as a chef within a high standard hospitality environment.
• Familiarity with overseeing food and beverage operations.
• Knowledge of financial management, capable of supporting budget management and financial performance analysis.
• Excellent leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage teams effectively.
• Committed to enhancing residents' well-being and fostering a sense of community.
• Possesses adaptability and strong decision-making skills to manage competing priorities.
• Demonstrates ambition and a results-oriented mindset.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends, to meet development needs.
• Values aligned with our philosophy as outlined on our website.
• Be warm, friendly and approachable.
• Passionate about making a difference to older people's lives.

Key Responsibilities

Key responsibilities will include:

• To ensure all food prepared, kitchen equipment, work areas and other facilities meets Food Hygiene Standards and ensure that safe methods of work are always used.
• Be aware of and ensure compliance with all relevant UK food safety and health and safety legislation, ensuring that all food is prepared, handled, stored and served safely and in accordance with Birchgrove Policies and Procedures.
• Manage and deliver all food catering services – daily restaurant meals, events, snacks, etc.
• Meet the special needs or dietary requirements of all customers.
• Develop and review the menu on a regular basis with acknowledgement to seasonal changes in supplies, sourcing through preferred suppliers.
• Plan, develop and deliver balanced menus that offer interest, quality and consistency and which contribute to the ongoing success and reputation of the business.
• Ensure provision of cost-effective, chargeable services.
• Monitor performance of suppliers’ quality, food safety and pricing, feeding back to the General Manager.
• Support cost-effective stock control systems and ensure these are in place to minimise waste.
• Maintain a high standard of hygiene and cleanliness in the kitchen, and food storage areas at all times ensuring a five star EHO food safety rating is obtained and maintained.
• Ensure safe operation and maintenance of all kitchen equipment.
• Ensure the management and implementation of safe working procedures and practices in accordance with Health and Safety legislation.
• Monitor food safety compliance and record non-conformance with HACCP controls and corrective measures.
• Manage personal hygiene and fitness to work of any food handlers.
• Ensure kitchen waste is correctly managed to prevent pest infestation.
• Assist the Assistant Manager in the resolution of any complaints concerning the food catering service.
• Work alongside the Assistant Manager ensuring that an efficient catering service operates in all catering areas.
• Actively participate in events held onsite, liaising with the Assistant Manager and Wellbeing Coordinator.
• Attend and participate in food related forums/meetings.
• Comply with the HR policies and procedures, providing a role model for departmental staff.
• Actively engage in the direct kitchen team supervision including one-to-one meetings and a yearly performance review.
• Ensure all kitchen staff are provided with personal protective equipment where required.
• Keep up-to-date with current trends, seasonal and local specialties, and incorporate these into menu planning as appropriate.
• Accountable for the achievement of all budgets and targets within the department.
• Co-operate and support management colleagues to ensure that the overall site operations runs smoothly at all times.

Why Work for us

Make a difference every day – your work helps create a happy, thriving community. Enjoy great perks – competitive pay, healthcare cashback scheme, electric car scheme, and complimentary lunch cooked by our professional chefs. Grow with us – we’re committed to supporting your career and personal development. Be part of a caring team – where everyone is respected, included, and valued. Feel proud – Birchgrove is a leader in our field, with a reputation for quality, warmth, and community.

We are passionate about what we do and are looking for individuals who share our values and vision. If you are seeking a fulfilling career and a positive work environment, we encourage you to apply and become a part of our dynamic team.