At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a kitchen team to prepare nutritious meals for patients and staff.
- Company: Join Marie Curie, the UK's leading end-of-life charity making a real difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, competitive pay, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to inclusivity and sustainability.
- Why this job: Make an impact by providing quality meals in a compassionate environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering and team leadership, with relevant food hygiene qualifications.
The predicted salary is between 31157 - 31157 £ per year.
Marie Curie is the UK's leading end-of-life charity. We are the largest non-NHS provider of end-of-life care in the UK, delivering community nursing and hospice care across the country, while providing information and support on all aspects of dying, death, and bereavement.
Your role in our mission
We are looking for an experienced Head Chef to lead the catering service at Marie Curie West Midlands Hospice. You will oversee the preparation of high-quality, nutritious meals for patients, staff, volunteers and visitors, while maintaining excellent standards of food safety, hygiene and presentation. You will bring proven catering experience, strong food hygiene knowledge and the ability to lead a busy kitchen team with confidence and care.
Key responsibilities:
- Lead daily hospice catering, ensuring high-quality meal preparation and service.
- Plan and oversee nutritious, well-presented meals for patients, staff, volunteers and visitors.
- Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene, cleanliness and safe working practices.
- Support and motivate the kitchen team, promoting effective teamwork.
- Monitor standards, stock use and service quality to support efficient delivery.
Contract Type: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week
Working Pattern: Shift patterns: 11:00 am to 7:00 pm, working on a rota basis, five days per week, Monday to Sunday, including Bank Holidays
Location:
Requirements:
- Relevant professional cookery qualification, such as City & Guilds 706/1 and 706/2, or equivalent
- Minimum Level 3 food handling certificate, with intermediate food hygiene knowledge
- Willingness to work towards a higher-level qualification
- Relevant previous experience in a catering service environment
- Experience supervising or managing a team of up to ten people
- Level 4 or equivalent professional cookery qualification, such as NVQ Level 4, HND or equivalent
- Advanced food hygiene or higher-level food handling certificate
- Experience in a similar Head Chef role or within a similar organisation, such as healthcare, hospice or care services
What's in it for you:
- Annual leave allowance 27 days plus 8 public holidays (pro-rated)
- Competitive Policy for parental/sick Leave
- Continuous Professional development (Marie Curie supports and encourages personal and professional development)
- Industry leading training programmes
- Defined contribution schemes for Pension (the charity will match your contribution up to 7.5%)
- Support with eye care costs (terms apply)
- Discounts via the Benefit Hub Scheme
- Entitled to Marie Curie Blue Light Card
- Life assurance
Application Process:
Closing date for applications: 21 September 2026. This role will be subject to receiving an enhanced DBS criminal record check. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early.
At Marie Curie, our values are central to everything we do. They guide how we care for people, how we work together, and how we make decisions every day. We are committed to creating a workplace that is safe for everyone - staff and volunteers alike - supportive, inclusive and rewarding.
We believe everyone should have the opportunity to thrive and fulfil their potential. Marie Curie is deeply committed to diversity, equity and inclusion, recognising both the social justice imperative and the strength a diverse workforce brings. We actively encourage applications from people of all cultures, perspectives and lived experiences.
Head Chef employer: Marie Curie
Marie Curie is an exceptional employer, offering a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the UK's leading end-of-life charity. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, flexible working arrangements, and continuous professional development, staff are empowered to grow in their roles while making a significant impact on the lives of those facing terminal illness. The inclusive work culture fosters diversity and collaboration, ensuring that every voice is valued as we strive to provide the best possible care and support.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨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 Marie Curie. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Marie Curie
Don't be shy about reaching out to Marie Curie 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
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 Marie Curie 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 Marie Curie
✨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!
