At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen team, create exciting menus, and ensure food safety standards.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking care home dedicated to exceptional personalised care.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and free meals on shift.
- Other info: Be part of a heart-centred team in a modern, welcoming environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in residents' lives while enjoying a balanced work-life.
- Qualifications: Experience in kitchen management and a passion for food preparation.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 32000 £ per year.
You're a fab chef, love to learn and want to progress, you have ideas for menus and understand that food is the window to the soul!
You have learned alongside another chef, how to manage kitchens, including EHO requirements.
However, you're tired of long days, split shifts, working through into the night and don't get time at home with the family or to go out with friends.
What if there was a chef role that meant you could utilise all the learning you have had before AND you could forget long hours into the night, you didn't need to do split shifts and you had the opportunity to bring flair to menus whilst also learning about the nutritional needs of our older population?
Would that be something you would love to do?
Read on...
This is an exciting opportunity to work with a forward-thinking and growing organisation.
As the Head Chef at Acer Lodge, you will be placed at the heart of the home along with the people that live here.
You will have the overall responsibility for the catering services within Acer Lodge and you will lead by example.
You will be responsible for the team rota, food ordering, stock control including waste, ensuring that all allergies are recorded and shared with your team.
You will liaise with the people that live in the home and attend resident dining experiences.
The kitchen and food preparation areas need to be kept clean and tidy.
You will also have a comprehensive understanding of Health and Safety issues, particularly in respect of Basic Food Hygiene, COSHH, safe moving and handling and working within the guidelines relating to cross infection.
Responsibilities and Duties
- Oversee the training, supervision, appraisal, and performance management of the catering team.
- Ensure the staff rota is completed in a timely manner, maintaining appropriate staffing levels for each shift.
- Attend meetings and training sessions, both on-site and off-site, as required.
- Ensure compliance with all regulatory and statutory requirements, adhering to company policies and procedures.
- Maintain a thorough understanding of Health and Safety regulations, including Basic Food Hygiene, COSHH, safe moving and handling, and cross-infection guidelines.
- Perform any additional duties as assigned by the Home Manager to support the overall functioning of the home.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Experience within a similar environment desirable.
- NVQ Level 3 in food preparation & cooking (or equivalent) or a willingness to complete this qualification if not already obtained.
- Proficiency in IT, including Microsoft Office and internal applications; with the ability to learn new systems quickly.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while also being self-motivated and capable of working independently.
- Ability to work on a 7-day rota which will include weekends.
Acer Lodge opened in July 2024; a 70 bed nursing and dementia specialist care home in the heart of Blackburn, combines modern comfort with classic charm, offering a welcoming home for people who need care & support.
With spacious en-suite bedrooms, spectacular communal areas, and beautiful gardens, Acer Lodge is a place to live well and thrive.
We are looking for people to join our heart-centred team who will provide exceptional, personalised care, ensuring everyone feels valued, supported, and at home at Acer Lodge.
£32,000 per annum
Benefits of working at EQ Care
• ½ day off for your birthday - start your celebrations early!
- Blue Light Discount Card - access exclusive savings and offers.
- 28 days of annual leave (pro rata) - enjoy a healthy work-life balance.
- Salary advance scheme (Level) - access earned pay when you need it.
- Contributory pension - helping you plan for your future.
- Dedicated Learning & Development - continuous training and career growth opportunities.
- Team member rewards - recognising and celebrating your hard work.
- Free meals on shift - enjoy a meal on us while you work.
- Free tax review service - making sure you keep more of what you earn.
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Head Chef in Preston employer: EQ Care
At EQ Care Group, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values the well-being and growth of our team members. As the Head Chef at Acer Lodge in Blackburn, you will enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises work-life balance with no late nights or split shifts, alongside competitive benefits such as a birthday half-day off, a Blue Light Discount Card, and opportunities for continuous learning and development. Join us in creating a warm, compassionate environment where you can truly thrive while making a meaningful impact on the lives of our residents.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Preston
✨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 EQ Care. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to EQ Care
Don't be shy about reaching out to EQ Care 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 Head Chef in Preston
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 EQ Care 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 EQ Care
✨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!
