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- Tasks: Lead a kitchen team to create nutritious meals for our Residents, ensuring quality and safety.
- Company: HC-One is dedicated to providing kind care in Dementia, Nursing, and Residential homes.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible pay access, paid DBS checks, free meals, and 28 days annual leave.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in residents' lives while working in a supportive, inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: S/NVQ2 in Catering & Hospitality, Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate, and HACCP knowledge required.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to personal growth and professional development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview
As Head Chef at HC-One, you’ll lead a kitchen team to deliver high-quality, nutritious meals for Residents in our Dementia, Nursing, Residential, and Specialist care homes. You’ll ensure every dish supports Residents’ health and wellbeing, considering individual dietary needs, cultural preferences, and nutritional requirements. With hygiene and safety front of mind, you’ll manage the kitchen efficiently — overseeing stock, budgets, orders, and compliance with food safety standards such as HACCP. You’ll work with central teams to maintain nutritional excellence while running a smooth, well-organised kitchen operation. You’ll help shape mealtimes into enjoyable, ambient dining experiences that enhance Residents’ quality of life.
Responsibilities
- Inspire and lead the kitchen team to deliver high-quality, nutritious meals that Residents genuinely enjoy.
- Ensure all dishes meet health and wellbeing goals, dietary needs, cultural preferences, and nutritional requirements.
- Maintain hygiene and safety standards, manage stock, budgets, orders, and compliance with food safety standards (e.g., HACCP).
- Collaborate with central teams to sustain nutritional excellence and efficient kitchen operations.
- Contribute to creating a positive mealtime experience in a welcoming dining environment.
Qualifications
- An S/NVQ2 in Catering & Hospitality or Professional Cookery
- A minimum Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate
- A good understanding of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP)
Safeguarding
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. You should be able to recognise signs of abuse, harm, or neglect and know what to do if concerns arise. All colleagues are required to attend safeguarding training appropriate to their role and to undertake additional training as needed.
About HC-One
At HC-One, kindness is more than a word—it’s a way of life. We care about what matters most to Residents and support them to live their best possible lives. HC-One values inclusivity and supports digital care planning to streamline care, improve outcomes, and increase efficiency. We offer clear career pathways, continuous professional development, and opportunities at regional and national levels.
Rewards & Benefits
- Hourly rate subject to experience and qualifications
- Paid Enhanced DBS/PVG
- 1K Welcome Bonus
- Free uniform
- Nutritious meals during shifts of eight hours or more
- Company pension scheme
- 28 days annual leave inclusive of bank holidays
- Group life assurance
- Wagestream – flexible access to pay as you need it
- Learning and development opportunities and support to achieve qualifications
- GP online service for you and your children under 16
- Colleague discounts on high street offers
- Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 support
- Recognition schemes such as Kindness in Care and Long Service Awards
- Refer-a-friend incentive (terms apply)
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Head Chef employer: HC One
Contact Detail:
HC One Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with HC-One's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to kindness and individual care will help you align your approach during interviews and discussions, showcasing how your personal values resonate with theirs.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you motivate a kitchen team. Think of specific examples where you've inspired others or improved team dynamics, as this is crucial for the Head Chef role.
✨Tip Number 3
Research current trends in nutrition and dietary needs, especially for elderly residents. Being knowledgeable about these topics will demonstrate your commitment to providing high-quality meals that cater to individual preferences.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the care home sector. Engaging with others in the industry can provide insights into the role and may even lead to recommendations, increasing your chances of landing the job.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Head Chef position at HC-One. Understand the key responsibilities, required qualifications, and the values that the company upholds, particularly the emphasis on kindness and care.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in catering and hospitality. Emphasise your leadership skills, ability to motivate a team, and any specific achievements related to food safety standards like HACCP. Make sure to include your qualifications such as the S/NVQ2 and Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for providing high-quality meals and your commitment to the well-being of residents. Use this opportunity to showcase your understanding of the importance of kindness in care and how you embody the qualities HC-One values.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread your CV and cover letter. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that your documents are clear and professional. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and commitment to excellence.
How to prepare for a job interview at HC One
✨Show Your Kindness
As kindness is at the heart of HC-One, make sure to demonstrate your compassionate nature during the interview. Share examples of how you've positively impacted others in previous roles, especially in a kitchen or care environment.
✨Highlight Your Leadership Skills
Discuss your experience in leading a kitchen team and how you motivate others. Be prepared to share specific instances where your leadership made a difference in service quality or team morale.
✨Emphasise Food Safety Knowledge
Since food safety is crucial, be ready to talk about your understanding of HACCP and any relevant certifications. You might also want to discuss how you ensure compliance with food safety standards in your previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Organisational Skills
Talk about how you manage kitchen operations efficiently, including stock management and budgeting. Providing examples of how you've successfully planned and executed meal services will show your organisational prowess.
