At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a kitchen team to create enjoyable dining experiences for residents.
- Company: Viewpoint Housing Association, dedicated to enhancing the lives of older people.
- Benefits: Full-time hours, 7 weeks holiday, training opportunities, and Blue Light Card discounts.
- Other info: Join a supportive team that values hard work, fun, and compassion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in residents' lives through quality food and care.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering management and strong knowledge of nutrition for older people.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Department: Care Homes
Role: Catering
Contract Term: Permanent
Closing date: 13 July 2026
Employment hours: Full time - 38 hours per week
7 weeks holidays including public holidays
Training opportunities
Blue Light Card Discount
Free parking
Location: EH9 2HG
Great food can change someone’s day. At Viewpoint Housing Association, it can change someone’s quality of life. We’re looking for an exceptional Catering Manager to lead the kitchen team working across our two warm and welcoming Edinburgh care homes (98 residents). This is more than a kitchen management role – it’s an opportunity to create dining experiences that bring comfort, dignity and real enjoyment to our residents every single day. If you’re a passionate food leader who thrives on quality, teamwork and making a difference, we want to hear from you.
What you’ll do:
- Lead and inspire a dedicated catering team
- Create nutritious, resident-focused menus including specialist and texture-modified diets
- Deliver high-quality meals that residents genuinely look forward to
- Manage kitchen operations, suppliers, food safety compliance and monitor budgets
- Work closely with care teams to support residents’ health, wellbeing and enjoyment
What we’re looking for:
- Catering management experience (care, healthcare or similar setting)
- Strong knowledge of nutrition for older people
- A hands‑on leader who cares about people as much as food
Why Viewpoint?
For nearly 80 years we’ve supported older people to live well with independence, choice and dignity. Our teams live our values every day: work hard, have fun, laugh often and treat everyone like a loved one. Bring your leadership. Bring your passion for food. Help make every mealtime matter.
Catering Manager - St Raphael's Care Home employer: Viewpoint
At Viewpoint Housing Association, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values the well-being and growth of our staff. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, our warm and welcoming care homes offer a supportive work culture where teamwork and passion for quality food come together to create meaningful dining experiences for our residents. With generous benefits including 7 weeks of holiday, training opportunities, and a Blue Light Card discount, we are committed to fostering a fulfilling environment for our Catering Manager to thrive and make a real difference in the lives of older people.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Manager - St Raphael's Care Home
✨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 Viewpoint. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Viewpoint
Don't be shy about reaching out to Viewpoint 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 Catering Manager - St Raphael's Care Home
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 Viewpoint 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 Viewpoint
✨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!
