At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a kitchen team to create fresh, nutritious meals for residents.
- Company: Milford Care, a family-run business with over 35 years of experience.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, full training, employee discounts, and real progression opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive, family-feel team culture in a rewarding environment.
- Why this job: Make a difference in residents' lives through delicious, balanced meals.
- Qualifications: Food Safety Level 2 certificate; care home experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 14.31 - 14.31 £ per hour.
Do you enjoy creating fresh, nutritious meals that people genuinely look forward to? Are you ready to lead a kitchen team in a caring, supportive home environment?
The role
Milford Care is looking for a Head Chef to join Spencer Grove, our nursing and residential care home. This is a full-time, permanent role, working 37.5 hours per week, over a 7-day rota.
Key Responsibilities
- You will run the kitchen day to day, preparing balanced meals that meet residents’ needs, preferences and dietary requirements.
- Plan varied, nutritious menus
- Lead and support the kitchen team
- Maintain excellent food hygiene and cleanliness standards
- Manage stock, ordering and food waste
- Keep within agreed kitchen cost guidelines
- Work closely with care and nursing colleagues
- Support training and safe kitchen practices
About our company
Milford Care has been family-run for over 35 years. We are proud to offer person-centred care in a warm, respectful and friendly setting. Opened in 2009, Spencer Grove’s spacious layout and design was awarded “Best Healthcare Development” at the LABC East Midlands Building Excellence Awards. The accolades don’t end at “Best Healthcare Development”, Spencer Grove has received many other awards for excellence in care in the following years, including a number of winners at the Great British Care Awards.
The Benefits
- Full in-house training and ongoing development
- Support with NVQs and further training
- CareFriends referral bonus scheme
- Free uniform
- Workplace pension
- On-site parking
- Employee discounts
- Annual Milford Care Awards
- Supportive, family-feel team culture
- Real progression opportunities
The person
You will need a Food Safety Level 2 certificate. Care home or nursing home experience would be helpful, but it is not essential. More importantly, you will be organised, reliable and kind, with the confidence to lead a kitchen and work well with residents, colleagues and the wider care team.
What’s next
Apply today and join Milford Care as Head Chef, where your food can bring comfort, choice and enjoyment to residents every day.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Derby
✨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 Milford Care. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Milford Care
Don't be shy about reaching out to Milford Care 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 Derby
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 Milford Care 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 Milford Care
✨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!
