At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a kitchen team to create delicious, nutritious meals for our residents.
- Company: Join a compassionate care home dedicated to high-quality resident care.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, paid leave, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive community focused on care and personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in residents' lives through exceptional dining experiences.
- Qualifications: 5+ years as a Chef, NVQ Level 3 in Cookery or Management required.
The predicted salary is between 14.75 - 14.75 £ per hour.
Are you an experienced Chef with a passion for food? Join the Compassionate Team at Blair House Care Home. Blair House Care Home is a well-established, registered nursing facility located on the outskirts of Newtownards, with the iconic Scrabo Tower as its backdrop. Conveniently situated near the town centre, the home is easily accessible via a range of transport options. Our spacious home offers care and support for up to 85 residents across four specialised units: Residential Dementia, Nursing Dementia, Frail and Elderly Nursing, and our newly opened Mental Health Unit. Each unit is designed to meet the unique needs of our residents in a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment. At Blair House, we pride ourselves on our experienced, dedicated team who deliver high-quality, person-centred care every day.
The food our residents eat plays a key part in the care we offer and as a result, the role of Chef is essential in our mission to provide excellent care. The Chef is responsible for menu planning, meal preparation, kitchen management and ensuring compliance with the necessary regulatory standards. This is a leadership role, managing the kitchen team in addition to working closely with the care teams and management of the Home. The Chef has a meaningful impact on the health and wellbeing of our residents through the provision of high quality, person-centred dining experiences. This role is about a lot more than preparing meals; it is essential in ensuring the dietary needs of our residents are met in addition to managing a safe and positive working environment for the team.
Main Responsibilities:
- Effective and efficient planning, preparation, and delivery of all aspects of food preparation and cooking
- Supervising and motivating the catering team and ensuring operational standards comply
- Responsible for monitoring the home's catering budget within Healthcare Ireland's standards
- Researches, develops, and creates varied and interesting menus
- Ensures that stock ordering and rotation is organised in an efficient and cost-effective manner
- Undertake any other duties that may be reasonably required as designated by the Home Manager
The Benefits:
- Paid annual leave
- The chance to be part of a growing healthcare company
- Continuous professional development and training
- Values-led culture
- Overtime available at an enhanced rate
- Opportunities for progression
- Pension plan (if applicable)
- Attractive hourly rate
- Access NI fee paid for
- Uniforms and PPE provided
- Monthly incentives and recognition awards
- Free parking
We do not offer sponsorship for this role. Healthcare Ireland are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons.
Required Criteria:
- Right to Work in the UK.
- A minimum of 5 years experience as Chef or a similar role.
- Qualified to NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Management/ NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Professional Cookery.
- Hold an advanced Food Safety certificate.
- Have excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- The ability to manage a small team, ensuring the kitchen provision operates in line with company expectations, the necessary standards and regulations, whilst providing an exceptional service to our residents.
- Capable of planning nutritious meals, taking into account specific dietary requirements as well as having an understanding of IDDSI modified foods.
- Have knowledge of HACCP, COSHH and Health and Safety, updating this knowledge regularly.
Desired Criteria:
- Experience in a care home is desirable but not essential.
About The Company:
We are passionate about providing the highest standards of care in safe, positive and flexible environments, which enable each person who uses our services to achieve their potential. We are committed to providing each employee with a fulfilling working environment, encouraging personal and professional development. We aim to be a first class, independent organisation delivering innovative, collaborative and value for money services. Our ultimate purpose is to work with the people who use our services and their families and friends, to enable them to take control of their lives.
Company Culture:
We're always on the lookout for people who care, whether that's caring for our residents, or in one of our roles like laundry, kitchen, administration or maintenance. Our passionate, ever-growing team means that you'll be working with people who pride themselves on the work they do. Each of our Homes and our Head Office work together to achieve something excellent that truly makes a difference in people's lives. Caring for our residents is at the heart of all we do, and we'd love to have you join the team.
Company Benefits:
Healthcare Ireland Group is not just a workplace; it's a community where your work has a purpose, and your contributions are valued. If you're passionate about making a difference and are seeking a rewarding career in healthcare, we welcome you to explore opportunities with us and help continue our legacy of excellence in care.
Salary: £14.75 per hour
Chef in Newtownards employer: Healthcare Ireland Group
Healthcare Ireland Group is an excellent employer, offering a nurturing environment at Ben Madigan Nursing Home in Newtownabbey where compassion and dignity are at the forefront of care. With a strong emphasis on professional development and a supportive workplace culture, employees are encouraged to grow and thrive while making a meaningful impact in the lives of residents. The benefits, including paid annual leave, further enhance the rewarding experience of working in this vital role.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef in Newtownards
✨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 Healthcare Ireland Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Healthcare Ireland Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Healthcare Ireland Group 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 in Newtownards
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 Healthcare Ireland Group 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 Healthcare Ireland Group
✨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!
