At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious meals and bring your creativity to seasonal dishes.
- Company: Join a leading care provider with an outstanding reputation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, subsidised meals, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in residents' lives while enjoying work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Chef or Cook; training provided for the right candidate.
The predicted salary is between 16.35 - 16.35 £ per hour.
Care Home CQC Rating: Outstanding
Location: The Lodge, 22 Spicer Road, Exeter, EX1 1SY
Hourly Rate: £16.35 per hour
Contract: Full-time
Shifts: 37 hours over a 7 day rota, to include every other weekend
Elizabeth Finn is a leading care provider providing exceptional care throughout our eight prestigious care homes. Our company values are Bring Love, Inspire More, Act with Purpose and Welcome All. The Lodge is an elegant and characterful Victorian house, located on Spicer Road, close to the centre of Exeter. Offering outstanding levels of residential and nursing care and a warm welcome for all.
We are seeking an experienced Chef to create delicious, nutritious meals that reflect the preferences and dietary needs of our residents. Our kitchen operates on a planned production model—busy, well-organised and never unpredictable. With an à la carte-style menu, you’ll also have space to bring creativity to seasonal dishes. And with no late nights, structured rotas and consistent hours, the role offers genuine work–life balance.
What you'll do:
- Prepare and cook meals in accordance with established menus and dietary requirements, including special diets and allergies.
- Ensure all food is prepared to high standards of quality, taste, and presentation.
- Maintain cleanliness and organisation of the kitchen area following health and safety regulations.
- Assist with menu planning and contribute creative ideas for seasonal and resident-preferred dishes.
- Monitor stock levels and assist with ordering supplies to minimise waste.
- Work collaboratively with catering staff and management to ensure smooth kitchen operations.
- Adhere strictly to food hygiene standards and company policies at all times.
Qualifications & Skills:
- Proven experience as a Chef or Cook in hospitality or catering (care experience beneficial but not essential).
- Knowledge of HACCP, COSHH and IDDSI, or willingness to learn.
- Ability to work 10-hour shifts on a rota including alternate weekends.
- Level 2 Food Hygiene required (Level 3 desirable; training can be supported).
- Strong organisational skills with consistent attention to detail.
- A collaborative, resident-focused approach.
Elizabeth Finn Homes do not currently provide sponsorship, but we welcome applications from those who have a right to work in the UK. In return for the wonderful contribution our employees make we offer the following benefits:
- Enhanced pay for family leave
- Overtime and bank holiday enhancements to pay
- Group pension scheme
- Occupational sick pay after probation
- Wellbeing support through various initiatives including an employee assistance programme with free counselling and Mental Health First Aiders.
- Opportunity to earn rewards via Care Friends (refer a friend scheme) which you can cash in when you choose
- Free Blue Light card – provides members with thousands of amazing retail discounts
- Long service awards
- Subsidised meals while on duty
- Apprenticeships, continuous learning and development, professional development and study support opportunities
Safeguarding: In the process of recruitment, selection and appointment Elizabeth Finn Homes implement a range of procedures and actions including Police/Enhanced DBS Checks to ensure our employees, residents and everyone is safeguarded, and abuse is prevented. This is in line with our company values, which are Bring Love, Inspire More, Act with Purpose and Welcome All.
Criminal record checks: As this role involves a regulated activity, successful applicants will undertake an enhanced DBS check, with barred lists check, and any offer of employment will be dependent on a satisfactory outcome. Having a criminal record will not necessarily bar a person from working for us, this will depend on the circumstances and background of any record.
Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging: Elizabeth Finn strives to treat all staff equally and be a diverse and inclusive workplace, where everyone can be themselves and everyone accepts each other’s differences. Our ambition is to ensure equality and celebrate diversity, working together to create an inclusive workplace, which attracts, nurtures and retains the best people.
Chef/Cook - The Lodge employer: Elizabeth Finn Homes Limited
Elizabeth Finn Homes Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and compassionate work environment at Merlewood Care Home in Virginia Water. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, we provide opportunities for training and advancement in the care sector, ensuring that our team members feel valued and empowered to make a difference in the lives of our residents.
Contact Details:
Elizabeth Finn Homes Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef/Cook - The Lodge
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Elizabeth Finn Homes Limited. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Elizabeth Finn Homes Limited
Don't be shy about reaching out to Elizabeth Finn Homes Limited directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Chef/Cook - The Lodge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Elizabeth Finn Homes Limited and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Elizabeth Finn Homes Limited
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
