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- Tasks: Create delicious meals for elderly residents while ensuring dietary needs are met.
- Company: ICare Group is dedicated to providing high-quality care in a supportive environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible part-time hours, training opportunities, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Join a compassionate team focused on enhancing the lives of seniors through nutritious food.
- Qualifications: Experience as a chef, NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Cookery, and a Food Hygiene Certificate required.
- Other info: Work in a friendly environment with a 5-star hygiene rating and opportunities for growth.
The predicted salary is between 23200 - 29000 £ per year.
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Chef/Kitchen Manager to join our team at a residential retirement facility, where nutritious, well-balanced meals are a key part of the high standard of service we provide to our residents. The successful candidate will be passionate about food, committed to hygiene and safety standards, and sensitive to the dietary needs of elderly and vulnerable individuals.
Key Responsibilities:
- Plan, prepare, and cook meals in accordance with dietary requirements, preferences, and nutritional guidelines.
- Working under own initiative.
- Design weekly menus in collaboration with operational management, ensuring a variety of nutritionally balanced meals and maintaining budgetary control.
- Ensure food is served on time (service commences at 12:15pm) and at the correct temperature.
- Cater to specific dietary needs including diabetic-friendly meals, and allergy-aware dishes.
- Produce for buffets and themed events for special days and functions periodically.
- Maintain high standards of hygiene and cleanliness in the kitchen at all times (we currently have and wish to maintain our 5-star hygiene rating).
- Ensure compliance with food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP) and internal policies.
- Monitor and manage stock levels, portion control, monthly stock takes, ordering supplies as needed and minimizing waste/over production at all times.
- Liaise with Operations Management to receive feedback and make necessary adjustments to meals.
- Manage, supervise and train service assistants or support staff when required.
- Proactive in daily, weekly and monthly cleaning schedules.
Requirements:
- Proven experience as a chef, preferably in a residential establishment.
- NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Professional Cookery (or equivalent qualification).
- Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or higher).
- Knowledge of dietary requirements for older adults and those with medical conditions.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills.
- Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Compassionate, patient, and respectful approach to elderly people.
Desirable:
- Experience working with older clientele with varied dietary needs.
- First Aid training.
- Familiarity with CQC standards (Care Quality Commission).
Working Hours:
7am - 3pm, 4 days per week including weekend working (including a half hour break) must be flexible to ensure 7 day production.
Equal Opportunities:
ICare Group is an Equal Opportunities employer committed to fostering an inclusive work environment that supports and respects all individuals. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds.
Chef/Kitchen Manager - Retirement Living employer: ICare Group
Contact Detail:
ICare Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef/Kitchen Manager - Retirement Living
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific dietary needs of elderly individuals. Understanding how to cater to various health conditions, such as diabetes or allergies, will set you apart as a candidate who truly cares about the residents' well-being.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for food and cooking by discussing any unique dishes or menus you've created in the past. This can demonstrate your creativity and ability to provide nutritious meals that meet diverse dietary requirements.
✨Tip Number 3
Highlight your experience with food safety regulations and hygiene standards. Since maintaining a high hygiene rating is crucial for this role, being able to discuss your knowledge of HACCP and other safety practices will be beneficial.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your organisational skills and time management strategies. Given the fixed meal times and the need for efficient kitchen operations, demonstrating how you manage your time effectively will show you're ready for the demands of the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Chef/Kitchen Manager - Retirement Living
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience as a chef or kitchen manager, especially in residential settings. Emphasise your qualifications, such as NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Professional Cookery and any food hygiene certifications.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for cooking and caring for the elderly. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to cater to dietary needs and maintain high hygiene standards.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on skills that are crucial for the role, such as menu planning, time management, and communication. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed kitchen operations in the past.
Show Your Commitment to Care: Express your dedication to providing nutritious meals and a positive dining experience for residents. Share any experiences you have working with older adults or in similar environments to reinforce your suitability for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at ICare Group
✨Show Your Passion for Food
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for cooking and how it relates to providing nutritious meals for elderly residents. Share any personal experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to food quality and care.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Dietary Needs
Be prepared to discuss specific dietary requirements for older adults, including diabetic-friendly options and allergy-aware dishes. This shows that you understand the importance of catering to individual needs in a retirement living setting.
✨Highlight Your Hygiene Standards
Since maintaining a high hygiene rating is crucial, talk about your experience with food safety regulations and your approach to cleanliness in the kitchen. Mention any relevant certifications you hold, such as your Food Hygiene Certificate.
✨Prepare for Menu Planning Questions
Expect questions about how you would design weekly menus that are both varied and nutritionally balanced. Think about how you can incorporate seasonal ingredients and manage budgetary constraints while still delivering quality meals.