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- Tasks: Lead a talented kitchen team to create high-end meals for our residents.
- Company: Join a top-rated care home group known for its supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy paid breaks, staff meals, and a range of employee perks.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in residents' lives through exceptional dining experiences.
- Qualifications: Level 3 in Catering or equivalent, with supervisory experience.
- Other info: Work in a state-of-the-art kitchen with opportunities for personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 54000 £ per year.
Up to £45,000 per annum depending on experience, plus company benefits.
Full Time Hours.
A Top 20 Care Home Group 2025! Awarded 'One of The UKs Best Companies to Work For.
Newly opened Merriman Grange is a luxurious residential and dementia care home based in Worthing offering state-of-the-art facilities, which include 72 large ensuite bedrooms and 5 luxury care suites. The home also features luxurious lounges and dining rooms, an on-site café bar, a cinema and a professional hair and beauty salon.
We have an exciting opportunity to join our team at our stunning newly opened home, working in a state of the art kitchen heading up a great team and working sociable hours!
Our team member benefits include:
- Paid Breaks
- Uniforms
- Staff Meals
- Nest Pension
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Care Workers Charity
- Spice of Life Discount Retail Scheme
- Cycle Scheme
- Eye Care
- Refer a Friend Scheme
- Reward Vouchers
- Quarterly & Annual Company Recognition Awards
At Cinnamon we like to understand what our residents enjoy. That's why our chefs visit all residents when they move into their new home. Our chefs will establish likes and dislikes and ensure that the homes menu cycle works for them. On occasions when this doesn't work they are happy to cook something different. Our chefs cater for modified and individual diets and have support at hand to seek advice and guidance if needed.
The standard of food that we require will be high-end, beautifully presented, using fresh ingredients and locally sourced where available. We insist that every meal time is a truly enjoyable experience for our residents.
Overseeing and managing a full kitchen team including a second chef and kitchen assistants, you will ensure that all kitchen services are efficient, and that the required Health and Safety measures are in place and adhered to within the department.
Additional requirements of this role include:
- Monitoring the performance of suppliers and regularly check that their prices remain competitive, ensuring that the General Manager is kept informed accordingly.
- 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, in accordance with the appropriate food hygiene regulations.
- Ensure the management and implementation of safe working procedures and practices in accordance with Health and Safety legislation.
- Assist the General Manager in the resolution of any complaints concerning the catering service.
- Actively participate in events held in home, liaising with the General Manager and Activities Coordinator to ensure nutrition and hydration needs are met, as well as social aspects of such events.
Person Specification: This role involves working within a team which is committed to providing an excellent food service to the residents, having appropriate supervisory experience and relevant qualifications pertaining to the safe delivery of Food and Hygiene or Catering Services.
Key Attributes:
- Level 3 in Catering or equivalent QCF qualification
- Working knowledge of Health and Safety legislation
- Team player, self-motivated, proactive, flexible and adaptable
- Ability to organize and prioritise workload, and work under pressure
- Ability to communicate and manage interpersonal relationships, including influencing skills
- Reasonable access outside working hours in emergency situations
Head Chef in Crawley employer: Cinnamon Care
Contact Detail:
Cinnamon Care Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Crawley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the culinary world, whether it's through social media or local events. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Head Chef position!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Consider hosting a pop-up event or cooking demonstration to showcase your culinary talents. This not only gets your name out there but also gives potential employers a taste of what you can do.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply, engage! When you find a job listing that excites you, reach out directly to the hiring manager or team. A quick message expressing your enthusiasm can set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep it fresh! Stay updated with the latest culinary trends and techniques. Mentioning these in interviews shows you're passionate and committed to delivering high-end, beautifully presented meals.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef in Crawley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When writing your application, let us see your love for cooking and creating amazing dishes. Share any experiences that highlight your culinary skills and how you can bring joy to our residents through food.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head Chef role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in managing kitchen teams and ensuring high standards of food hygiene. We want to see how your background aligns with what we’re looking for!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where necessary to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate straightforward communication, so don’t be afraid to show your personality while being professional.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Merriman Grange. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cinnamon Care
✨Know Your Ingredients
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of fresh ingredients and local sourcing. Be ready to discuss how you would incorporate these into high-end meals that cater to individual dietary needs. This shows your passion for quality and attention to detail.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head Chef, you'll be managing a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a kitchen team in the past. Highlight your ability to motivate others, manage conflicts, and ensure a smooth operation under pressure.
✨Understand the Care Home Environment
Familiarise yourself with the unique aspects of working in a care home setting. Be prepared to discuss how you would create enjoyable meal experiences for residents, including accommodating modified diets and personal preferences.
✨Health and Safety Know-How
Make sure you can confidently talk about health and safety regulations relevant to the kitchen. Prepare to explain how you would maintain hygiene standards and implement safe working practices, as this is crucial in a care home environment.
