At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate team to create delicious meals and exceptional dining experiences for our residents.
- Company: Join ExtraCare, a charitable trust dedicated to enhancing the lives of older people.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days annual leave, free life insurance, gym access, and ongoing training.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive community that values diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of residents while developing your culinary career.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or ambitious sous chef ready to step up.
The predicted salary is between 16.61 - 16.61 £ per hour.
The ExtraCare Charitable Trust are recruiting for a Head Chef to lead the team at Solihull Retirement Village. Are you currently working as a Head Chef or perhaps looking for career progression and believe you have the relevant experience? We would love to hear from you!
Benefits:
- 33 Days Annual Leave (FTE)
- Option to buy and sell holiday
- Free Life Insurance
- Cycle2work
- Village Attendance Reward
- Free Use of on-site Gym
- Up to 9% Pension Contributions
- Ongoing Training and Development
ExtraCare does not participate in the current "UK Visa Sponsorship" and we would not be able to facilitate sponsorship.
Role Details:
- Role: Head Chef
- Hours: 30 hours per week
- Rate: £25,977 pa (£16.61 per hour)
- Location: Victoria Cres, Solihull B90 2FH
What will you do as our Head Chef?
- Work with the Lifestyle Manager to inspire, lead and have responsibility for the catering and hospitality team at Solihull Retirement Village and to exceed expectations on customer service, financial performance, and service quality.
- Be responsible for the delivery and management of the provision of food and beverage services across the Village, including bar and events.
- Work with the Village Manager to develop the strategy for the hospitality service to contribute to the Village's income strategy, including service diversification as appropriate (for instance, events and meal delivery).
- Be involved in the recruitment of hospitality staff to build a motivated and qualified team.
- Contribute to the support offered to residents, working with other Village teams: Care, Wellbeing and Dementia Support, taking into account any specific dietary needs.
- Promote quality and value for money control procedures for procurement and stock management.
- Engage with residents on menu planning, pricing, and service provision.
- Actively monitor customer requirements and proactively address complaints and comments.
- Deliver a safe and compliant service within the legal frameworks of Health and Safety, Food Handling, and Hygiene.
Our ideal Head Chef will:
- Have experience in a previous Head Chef role or be a sous chef wishing to progress.
- Have the ability to inspire and lead a team.
- Have empathy and understand our residents' needs and dietary requirements.
- Have experience across diverse hospitality settings.
- Have menu planning and budgetary experience.
- Be a team player.
- Be passionate and enthusiastic with excellent communication skills.
Here at ExtraCare we offer our residents access to outstanding retirement villages, promoting care and lifestyle opportunities that truly do create 'better lives for older people'. We are committed to offering fulfilling and worthwhile careers to all our staff - enabling you to deliver the quality of service we promise. ExtraCare strives to create a workplace that fully reflects society. We want our staff to feel empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work and be part of a safe and supportive community. This Head Chef post may be subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS disclosure, and will be subject to two references, medical clearance and Home Office right to work clearance. ExtraCare is committed to making our recruitment practices as fair and inclusive as possible. This includes making reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process.
Head Chef in Solihull employer: Extracare Charitable Trust
ExtraCare Charitable Trust is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being of both its residents and staff. At Lovat Fields Retirement Village, you will find a nurturing work culture that encourages personal growth and professional development, alongside the rewarding experience of making a positive impact on the lives of older adults. With a focus on compassion and community, this role offers a unique opportunity to thrive in a supportive environment while promoting health and wellness.
Contact Details:
Extracare Charitable Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Solihull
✨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 Extracare Charitable Trust. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Extracare Charitable Trust
Don't be shy about reaching out to Extracare Charitable Trust 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 Solihull
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 Extracare Charitable Trust 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 Extracare Charitable Trust
✨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!
