About this role
At Retirement Villages Group, we believe that ageing should be about freedom, not compromise. We’re on a mission to redefine retirement living in the UK - creating inclusive, vibrant communities where individuals live independently, stay connected, and age well on their own terms.
We’re now recruiting a talented Head Chef to join us at our beautiful retirement village, opening its doors to a bold new chapter in retirement living. This is an incredibly exciting time to join, helping shape the culinary identity of the village. As Head Chef, you’ll lead all kitchen operations - from seasonal menu design and event catering to team development and food safety - delivering high-quality, resident-focused dining experiences in this state-of-the-art community.
Key Responsibilities
Menu Development & Culinary Leadership
- Create seasonal, nutritious, and flavourful menus tailored to residents’ needs and tastes
- Champion fresh, locally sourced ingredients wherever possible
- Lead special event and hospitality catering across the village
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date dish data in procurement and EPoS systems
Kitchen Operations & Budget Management
- Manage kitchen staff, schedules, and performance
- Control kitchen budgets, stock levels, and monthly stocktakes
- Drive cost-effective procurement and food margin optimisation
- Ensure delivery of exceptional quality alongside commercial efficiency
Food Safety & Compliance
- Uphold rigorous food hygiene and H&S standards at all times
- Complete daily walk-throughs of kitchen and dining areas
- Keep all equipment maintained and audits up to date using internal systems
Team Development
- Lead a positive, collaborative kitchen culture
- Support recruitment and onboarding of new staff
- Design Personal Development Plans (PDPs) and training for chefs and support staff
Resident Experience
- Interact with residents, gathering feedback and continuously enhancing the offering
- Help shape a welcoming, inclusive and memorable dining experience
The Ideal Candidate
Essential:
- Level 3 Professional Cookery qualification or equivalent
- Experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a similar environment
- Strong culinary skills and passion for high-quality food
- Proven experience leading teams and managing budgets
- Excellent communication and leadership abilities
- Understanding of dietary requirements of older adults
- Willingness to undertake an enhanced DBS check
Desirable:
- Experience in care, hospitality or retirement living sectors
- Knowledge of kitchen compliance systems and Microsoft Office
- Experience with event and function catering
Our Values
- Age Well – We create opportunities to live life to the full at every stage
- Community – We believe in the power of togetherness
- Keep Improving – We learn, adapt and grow continuously
- Planet Positive – We care for the environment and act responsibly
- One Team – We succeed together, with support and trust
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Brand new, purpose-built facilities with modern kitchens and equipment
- Free meals while on shift
- Learning and development opportunities
- Supportive culture with wellbeing and recognition initiatives
- A chance to build something from the ground up in a flagship community
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