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- Tasks: Lead a passionate catering team to create nutritious meals that enhance residents' lives.
- Company: Southend Care, a values-driven organisation focused on exceptional care.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, free parking, uniform, and funded Blue Light Discount Card.
- Why this job: Make every meal a moment that matters while enjoying a healthy work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as a head chef with strong leadership and budget management skills.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with every other weekend off and opportunities for personal development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Head Chef to lead our catering team and deliver high-quality, nutritious meals that make a real difference to the lives of our residents. At Southend Care, we believe food is more than just a meal, it’s a vital part of enjoyment, dignity, and social connection. We are a values-based organisation proud to deliver exceptional care and support to those who use our services.
About the Role
- Plan, prepare and deliver high-quality, balanced and nutritious meals
- Recognise and promote the importance of mealtimes as a social and enjoyable experience for residents
- Lead, manage and motivate the catering team to achieve shared objectives
- Maintain the home’s 5-star food hygiene rating and ensure compliance with food safety legislation
- Manage catering budgets and control costs, including reducing food waste
- Source and order high-quality ingredients from approved suppliers
- Work collaboratively with colleagues across the home and wider organisation
- Complete staff supervisions, performance support and development
We understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance, the rota includes:
- Early shift: 7am – 3pm
- Late shift: 10.30am – 6pm
- Every other weekend off
You will also have flexible, office-based time to complete management, ordering and menu planning responsibilities.
About you
- Proven experience in a senior kitchen or head chef position
- Strong leadership and people management skills
- Sound knowledge of nutrition, special dietary requirements and food safety standards
- Experience in budget management and cost control
- A professional, organised and team-focused approach
- A commitment to the values and ethos of Southend Care
What We Offer
- Free Parking
- Free DBS
- Death in Service
- Free Uniform
- Funded Blue Light Discount Card
Apply now and help us make every meal a moment that matters. We may close applications early if a suitable candidate is found.
Head Chef in Southend-on-Sea employer: Southend Care Ltd
Contact Detail:
Southend Care Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Southend-on-Sea
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the culinary world and let them know you're on the hunt for a Head Chef role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opening or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you can, organise a tasting event or a pop-up kitchen to showcase your culinary talents. This not only gives potential employers a taste of what you can do but also demonstrates your passion for food and creativity.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation's values and ethos. At Southend Care, they value the importance of mealtimes and social connection, so be ready to discuss how you can contribute to that mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Southend Care.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef in Southend-on-Sea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When writing your application, let your love for food shine through! Share your culinary journey and what drives you to create nutritious meals that bring joy to others. We want to see your personality and passion reflected in your words.
Highlight Your Leadership Skills: As a Head Chef, leading a team is key. Make sure to include examples of how you've successfully managed and motivated a kitchen team in the past. We’re looking for someone who can inspire others, so don’t hold back on showcasing your leadership experience!
Be Specific About Your Experience: Tailor your application by detailing your relevant experience in senior kitchen roles. Mention any specific achievements, like maintaining high hygiene standards or managing budgets effectively. We appreciate clarity and specifics that demonstrate your expertise.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Let’s make every meal a moment that matters together!
How to prepare for a job interview at Southend Care Ltd
✨Know Your Culinary Passion
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on what drives your passion for cooking. Be ready to share specific examples of dishes or cuisines that inspire you and how you can bring that enthusiasm to the role at Southend Care.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head Chef, leading a team is crucial. Prepare to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed a kitchen team in the past. Highlight any strategies you've used to motivate staff and create a positive work environment.
✨Understand Nutrition and Dietary Needs
Familiarise yourself with the nutritional requirements and dietary restrictions relevant to the residents at Southend Care. Be prepared to discuss how you would plan menus that cater to these needs while ensuring meals are enjoyable and nutritious.
✨Budget Management Know-How
Brush up on your budget management skills. Be ready to talk about your experience with cost control and how you've successfully managed catering budgets in previous roles. Discuss any innovative ideas you have for reducing food waste while maintaining quality.
