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- Tasks: Lead the catering services and manage the kitchen team at Oaks Hospital.
- Company: Join Ramsay Health Care UK, a top independent healthcare provider with a stellar reputation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days leave, private medical cover, flexible shifts, and free training.
- Why this job: Be part of a caring culture that values innovation and teamwork in healthcare.
- Qualifications: Catering qualification, food hygiene certificate, and leadership experience required.
- Other info: Opportunity to make a real difference in patient care while developing your culinary skills.
Hours
37.5 hours per week, Full-time
Salary
Depends on experience + Benefits
About Us
Oaks Hospital is part of Ramsay Health Care UK, a leading independent healthcare provider in England. We deliver high‑quality care to NHS, private, and self‑funding patients, supported by advanced medical technology and a comprehensive range of services.
Job Title
Head Chef
Location
Oaks Hospital, Colchester
Job Description
We are seeking a Head Chef to lead catering services at Oaks Hospital. You will report to the Head of Operations and be responsible for food preparation, kitchen management, staff leadership, and cost control.
Essential Qualifications
- Catering and Hospitality qualification at HNC/SCQF Level 7 or equivalent
- Current Level 4 food hygiene certificate
- Industry experience with leadership and management skills
- Outstanding culinary knowledge
- Approachable, positive and proactive manner with a growth mindset
- Desire to innovate and elevate the department’s offerings
- Demonstrated team leadership ability
- Effective communication skills in a team environment
- Planning and organisational skills
- Good computer skills (MS Office)
- Flexibility and adaptability
Desirable
- Kitchen management experience
- Knowledge of special dietary requirements
- Food Safety Agency Allergen Awareness Training
- Management experience
- Commercial and financial awareness
- Previous health sector experience
Operational Responsibilities
- Lead and supervise food preparation and delivery
- Timely production of the kitchen rota
- Assist with training the kitchen team
- Develop daily specials
- Place orders
- Monthly stock take
- Monitor and control food cost within budget
- Oversee the food safety management system in line with Ramsay policies
Measurable Outcomes
- Follow company guidelines on purchasing from nominated suppliers
- Adherence to Ramsay food hygiene, COSHH, and HACCP policies
Benefits
- 25 days leave + bank holidays
- Private pension matched up to 5%
- Flexible shift patterns where possible
- Competitive parental leave policies
- Private medical cover, option to add partner & dependants
- Life assurance (death in service) x3 base salary
- Free training & development via Ramsay Academy
- Free parking on site where possible
- Subsidised staff restaurant where possible
- Employee assistance programme
- Cycle2Work scheme with Halfords
- Blue Light Card scheme
Equal Opportunities
This position is subject to background and DBS checks. We are committed to equality of opportunity for all applicants.
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Head Chef employer: Ramsay Health Care UK
Contact Detail:
Ramsay Health Care UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Ramsay Health Care's values and culture. Understanding 'The Ramsay Way' will help you align your approach to food service and patient care, which is crucial for a Head Chef role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Ramsay Health Care. They can provide insights into the work environment and expectations, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you manage kitchen teams. Highlight any innovative ideas you've implemented in previous roles that could elevate the catering services at Oaks Hospital.
✨Tip Number 4
Research dietary requirements and trends in hospital catering. Being knowledgeable about special diets and how to cater to them will demonstrate your commitment to patient care and culinary excellence.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in catering and hospitality, especially any leadership roles. Emphasise your culinary skills and any qualifications that match the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for food and healthcare. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead a kitchen team and innovate within a catering environment.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list your Catering and Hospitality qualifications, including your food hygiene certificate. If you have any additional training related to dietary requirements or allergen awareness, make sure to include that too.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've effectively communicated with team members and managed kitchen operations. This is crucial for a role that requires both leadership and teamwork.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ramsay Health Care UK
✨Showcase Your Culinary Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your culinary skills in detail. Bring examples of dishes you've created or menus you've designed, and be ready to explain your thought process behind them. This will demonstrate your creativity and knowledge in the kitchen.
✨Emphasise Leadership Skills
As a Head Chef, you'll need to lead a team effectively. Share specific examples of how you've managed kitchen staff, resolved conflicts, or improved team performance in previous roles. Highlight your ability to inspire and motivate others.
✨Understand Dietary Requirements
Familiarise yourself with special dietary needs and food safety regulations. Be ready to discuss how you would accommodate various dietary restrictions while maintaining high-quality meals. This shows your commitment to patient care and safety.
✨Demonstrate Financial Awareness
Discuss your experience with budgeting and cost control in the kitchen. Be prepared to explain how you've managed food costs and maximised resources in previous positions. This will show that you understand the business side of running a kitchen.
