Head Chef

Location: Haslemeare

Hours: 37.5 on a rota basis

Pay: £37,000 to £40,00 (DOE) 

Job Purpose

To manage all kitchen operations, ensuring high-quality food, safe working practices, and excellent service. The Head Chef leads the catering team, manages stock and budgets, and ensures all work meets hospital standards and legal requirements.

Main Duties

• Oversee daily food preparation and cooking to agreed standards using approved recipes.
• Monitor food quality, presentation, and portion sizes.
• Plan menus, including special events, ensuring variety, nutritional value, and cost-effectiveness.
• Check and control stock; order supplies and ensure all deliveries meet quality standards.

• Control food costs and reduce waste.
• Produce menu costings and yield charts.
• Complete daily catering department accounting tasks and submit monthly reports.
• Prepare staff rotas, record attendance, and complete payroll submissions.
• Follow hospital policies and ensure the catering team does the same.
• Maintain high standards of personal hygiene, dress, and professionalism.
• Induct new staff and attend required training sessions.
• Carry out any reasonable tasks to support the department.

• Ensure full compliance with food safety legislation (HACCP, Food Hygiene Regulations, Allergy Labelling).
• Keep accurate safety and hygiene records, including temperature and cleaning logs.
• Maintain safe working practices, complete risk assessments, and report accidents or hazards.
• Conduct regular audits with the Assistant General Manager and report findings.

Team Leadership

• Hold regular staff meetings and communicate changes clearly.
• Train staff in new procedures, equipment, and safety practices.
• Support staff development, conduct annual appraisals, and manage performance and discipline with HR/Director support.
• Motivate the team to deliver excellent customer service.

Health & Safety

• Work within the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974) and hospital risk management procedures.
• Participate in regular health and safety checks.
• Support infection prevention and control procedures. 

Important Note:

Due to the volume of applications, if you have not heard from us within 10 days, please assume you have not been shortlisted on this occasion. If you are unsure, feel free to contact our team.

By applying, you accept Jade Recruitment Limited’s Privacy & GDPR Policy (available on our website) and consent to being contacted by us.

Jade Recruitment Limited is acting as a Recruitment Agency for this vacancy and is an equal opportunities employer.