Godalming
Head Chef The Company Birchgrove is an innovative build-to-rent operator, exclusively for the over 65s. We bring purpose to our work and make a meaningful difference to the lives of our colleagues and our customers. We put our colleagues and residents at the heart of everything that we do and love to make a difference. Were proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and a Living Wage Employer. At Birchgrove, everyones contribution is valued, and we work together with warmth, respect, and purpose. The Role As Head Chef you will be expected to oversee the day-to-day operation of the kitchen and restaurant with your Sous Chef, on a Monday Sunday Rota. Seen as a mentor to other members of staff you will assist the General Manager within the community.You will play a crucial role in the success of the restaurant by ensuring the delivery of high-quality food, managing kitchen operations, and maintaining a positive and productive work environment. The Head Chef manages all food production and must ensure that high standards and high customer satisfaction are delivered, all kitchen services are efficient, and that the required Health and Safety measures are in place and adhered to within the department. In addition, is responsible for ensuring that food presentation achieves high standards at all times, meeting both customer needs as well as budgetary guidelines. The role will take responsibility for maintaining and monitoring compliance with the relevant regulator and external stakeholders EHO, HSE, etc The Person The ideal applicant should ideally have: Experience as a chef within a high standard hospitality environment. Familiarity with overseeing food and beverage operations. Knowledge of financial management, capable of supporting budget management and financial performance analysis. Excellent leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage teams effectively. Committed to enhancing residents' well-being and fostering a sense of community. Possesses adaptability and strong decision-making skills to manage competing priorities. Demonstrates ambition and a results-oriented mindset. Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends, to meet development needs. Values aligned with our philosophy as outlined on our website. Be warm, friendly and approachable Passionate about making a difference to older peoples lives Key Responsibilities Key responsibilities will include: To ensure all food prepared, kitchen equipment, work areas and other facilities meets Food Hygiene Standards and ensure that safe methods of work are always used. Be aware of and ensure compliance with all relevant UK food safety and health and safety legislation, including but not limited to the Food Safety Act 1990, the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, Regulation (EC) No 852/2004 on food hygiene (retained UK law), the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013, and the Food Information Regulations 2014, ensuring that all food is prepared, handled, stored and served safely and in accordance with Birchgrove Policies and Procedures. Manage and deliver all food catering services daily restaurant meals, events, snacks, etc Meets the special needs or dietary requirements of all customers. This must include knowledge of cultural and religious preferences and ensure that written allergen information is available. Develop and review the menu on a regular basis with acknowledgement to seasonal changes in supplies, sourcing through preferred suppliers. Plan, develop and deliver balanced menus that offer interest, quality and consistency and which contribute to the on-going success and reputation of the business Ensure provision of cost-effective, chargeable services Monitor performance of suppliers quality, food safety and pricing, feeding back to the General Manager Support cost-effective stock control systems and ensure these are in place to minimise waste Maintain a high standard of hygiene and cleanliness in the kitchen, and food storage areas at all times ensuring a five star EHO food safety rating is obtained and maintained. Ensure safe operation and maintenance of all kitchen equipment. Reporting any item of equipment found to be faulty or deemed unsafe from use and report it to the General Manager and Maintenance Ensure the management and implementation of safe working procedures and practices in accordance with Health and Safety legislation, specifically responsibility for implementing and maintaining HACCP plans and monitoring and signing off CCP records daily. Monitor food safety compliance and record non-conformance with HACCP controls and corrective measures. Manage personal hygiene and fitness to work of any food handlers. Ensure compliance with the Food standards Agency Fitness to Work guidance. Ensure kitchen waste is correctly managed to prevent pest infestation and ensure waste oil is collected frequently to prevent fire risks. Assist the Assistant Manager in the resolution of any complaints concerning the food catering service and ensure all food safety incidents are reported, Investigated and documented. Work alongside the Assistant Manager ensuring that an efficient catering service operates in all catering areas The Head Chef will actively participate in events held onsite, liaising with the Assistant Manager and Wellbeing Coordinator to ensure needs and expectations are not only met but exceeded Attend and participate in food related forums/meetings The Head Chef will comply with the HR policies and procedures, providing a role model for departmental staff Actively engage in the direct kitchen team supervision including one-to-one meetings and a yearly performance review, ensuring the teams knowledge and competency is maintained. Ensure all kitchen staff are provided with personal protective equipment where required and do not wear outdoor clothing in the kitchen. The Head Chef may be asked to participate in the delivery of staff induction and mandatory training as agreed with the General Manager Keep up-to-date with current trends, seasonal and local specialties, and incorporate these into menu planning as appropriate paying special attention to neighbours requests and seasonality Ensure that all kitchen staff receive induction training and that all training is kept up-to-date in particular food hygiene and food safety, in line with the competency levels set out in the food safety procedure. Accountable for the achievement of all budgets and targets within the department Co-operate and support management colleagues to ensure that the overall site operations runs smoothly at all times Why Work for us Make a difference every day your work helps create a happy, thriving community Enjoy great perks competitive pay, healthcare cashback scheme, electric car scheme, and complimentary lunch cooked by our professional chefs Grow with us were committed to supporting your career and personal development Be part of a caring team where everyone is respected, included, and valued Feel proud Birchgrove is a leader in our field, with a reputation for quality, warmth, and community We are passionate about what we do and are looking for individuals who share our values and vision. If you are seeking a fulfilling career and a positive work environment, we encourage you to apply and become a part of our dynamic team. TPBN1_UKCT