Head Chef – Residential Care Home

About the role

As Head Chef at Craighead Care Home you will lead the kitchen team in delivering high‑quality, nutritious meals for residents in a residential, nursing and dementia care setting. The role combines culinary expertise with a strong focus on dietary needs, food safety and cost‑effective operations, offering a balanced work schedule without late evenings.

Key responsibilities

• Plan and develop menus that meet nutritional standards and individual dietary requirements.
• Prepare and present meals using fresh ingredients while maintaining high standards of taste and presentation.
• Manage stock, ordering, budgeting and waste reduction to control costs.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and maintain a clean, safe kitchen environment.
• Lead, train and motivate kitchen staff to achieve consistent performance.

Required profile

• City & Guilds 706/1 and 706/2 or equivalent, or working towards a Basic Food Hygiene Certificate.
• Proven experience in leading or managing a kitchen.
• Strong leadership, organisational abilities and a proactive, reliable approach.

Required skills

• Food Hygiene knowledge.

What we offer

• £15.14 per hour on a 40‑hour week contract.
• Pension, paid PVG, uniform and 5.6 weeks annual leave.
• No late evenings or split shifts, providing genuine work‑life balance.
• Ongoing training, development and clear career progression opportunities.