Head Chef

Southend Care Ltd; Sea; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A local care service provider in the United Kingdom is seeking a motivated Head Chef to lead their catering team. This role involves planning and delivering nutritious meals, ensuring food safety compliance, and managing budgets effectively. The ideal candidate will have experience in a senior kitchen position and strong leadership skills. This position offers a better work-life balance with flexible shifts, along with perks such as free parking and other benefits.

Benefits

Free Parking

Free DBS

Death in Service

Free Uniform

Funded Blue Light Discount Card

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior kitchen or head chef position.
• Professional, organised and team-focused approach.
• Commitment to the values and ethos of the organization.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver high-quality, balanced meals.
• Manage catering budgets and control costs.
• Maintain compliance with food safety legislation.

Skills

Leadership and people management skills

Knowledge of nutrition and food safety standards

Budget management and cost control

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Head Chef to lead our catering team

Are you an experienced chef with a passion for food and the ability to lead a team? Are you looking for a rewarding role that offers a healthier work-life balance?

Southend Care is 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

As our Head Chef, you will:

• 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
• Maintaining 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

We are looking for someone who has:

• 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

In addition to a competitive salary, we offer:

• Free Parking
• Free DBS
• Death in Service
• Free Uniform
• Funded Blue Light Discount Card

If you’re passionate about food enjoy working as part of a dedicated team, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now and help us make every meal a moment that matters.

We may close applications early if a suitable candidate is found