At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve high-quality meals in a dynamic hospital environment.
- Company: Join Spire Southampton Hospital, a leader in private healthcare.
- Benefits: Enjoy 35 days annual leave, private medical insurance, and wellness screenings.
- Other info: Be part of a passionate team dedicated to clinical excellence and patient care.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on patients' lives through exceptional culinary experiences.
- Qualifications: Experience in a professional kitchen and Level 3 Food Safety qualification required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Spire Southampton Hospital is seeking an experienced Head Chef to join our professional and welcoming Catering team on a permanent basis. This role is ideal for a skilled chef who takes pride in delivering freshly prepared, high-quality food in a clinical, customer-focused environment.
The Role
You will be responsible for preparing and serving a range of hot and cold meals for patients, staff, consultants and visitors, in line with our corporate menus and quality standards. Working across all areas of the kitchen, you will ensure high levels of food presentation, hygiene and service at all times. You will also support special functions, cater for individual dietary needs and help maintain full compliance with food safety and health & safety regulations.
Duties and Responsibilities (not limited to):
- To assist other team members when necessary and maintain good working relationships
- To ensure all HACCP and health and safety guidelines are recorded and followed
- To assist with the service of food to staff, patients, consultants and visitors in all areas when required to do so
- To service the Staff Restaurant and maintain flow of food to service counters as required to the specified standard
- To prepare food and beverages for special functions and assist with other related activities as directed specified standards of preparation, production and presentation
- To check in all deliveries as necessary making sure that all records are recorded
- To undertake cleaning duties as per cleaning schedules and maintain clean and tidy working conditions at all times
What We’re Looking For
- Experience in a professional kitchen, catering for high volumes
- Restaurant-style or healthcare catering experience preferred
- Level 3 Food Safety qualification
- Strong communication and customer service skills
- Calm and effective under pressure
- A professional, team-focused approach
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full-time core hours 8-4 / 9-5 (unless covering leave, then will need to be flexible to cover shift patterns)
Benefits: We offer employed colleagues a competitive salary as well as a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:
- 35 days annual leave inclusive of bank holidays
- Employer and employee contributory pension with flexible retirement options
- ‘Spire for you’ reward platform - discount and cashback for over 1000 retailers
- Free Bupa wellness screening
- Private medical insurance
- Life assurance
Our Values
We are extremely proud of our heritage in private healthcare and of our values as an organisation:
- Driving clinical excellence
- Doing the right thing
- Caring is our passion
- Keeping it simple
- Delivering on our promises
- Succeeding and celebrating together
Our people are our difference; it's their dedication, warmth and pursuit of excellence that sets Spire Healthcare apart.
Closing Date: If we have received sufficient applications, this date may be brought forward so please submit your application as soon as possible.
For us, it's more than just treating patients; it's about looking after people.
About Us
Spire Healthcare is a leading independent healthcare group in the United Kingdom, running 38 hospitals and over 50 clinics across England, Wales and Scotland. It provides diagnostics, inpatient, day case and outpatient care, operates a network of private GPs and provides workplace health services to over 800 corporate clients. It also delivers a range of private and NHS mental health, musculoskeletal and dermatological services. We have achieved our market leading position because of our Purpose, which is to 'make a positive difference to people's lives through outstanding personalised care'. Everyone at Spire is aligned to this purpose, which underpins a culture of respect, inclusion, passion and collaboration across our business, enabling us to achieve more than 98% of our hospitals being rated ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ by the Regulators; these are sector leading standards.
Head Chef in Southampton employer: Spire Healthcare
Spire Southampton Hospital is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and professional work environment for its catering team. With a commitment to clinical excellence and employee well-being, the hospital provides generous benefits such as 35 days of annual leave, private medical insurance, and opportunities for personal growth within a leading independent healthcare group. Join us in making a positive difference in people's lives while enjoying a fulfilling career in a dynamic and rewarding setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Southampton
✨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 Spire Healthcare. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Spire Healthcare
Don't be shy about reaching out to Spire Healthcare 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 Southampton
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 Spire Healthcare 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 Spire Healthcare
✨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!
