Overview
Position: Head Chef
Band: 5
Location: Chelmsford
Pay Rate: £31,049-£37,796 Per Annum
Hours: 37.5 per week (including on-call rota, 1 week in 5)
Job Summary: The Head Chef oversees the day-to-day running of the hospital kitchen, ensuring the delivery of safe, nutritious, and high-quality meals for patients, staff, and visitors. This role involves managing kitchen staff, stock, and food safety standards while supporting service improvements and menu planning.
Responsibilities
* Lead and supervise the kitchen team, ensuring excellent food quality and service.
* Maintain compliance with NHS, Trust, and HACCP food safety standards.
* Manage stock levels, ordering, and cost control.
* Oversee menu planning with the Chef Manager and dietetic teams.
* Conduct hygiene checks, risk assessments, and ensure kitchen safety.
* Support and train staff, promoting teamwork and high performance.
* Participate in audits and contribute to service improvement initiatives.
Qualifications
Essential Criteria:
* NVQ Level 2 in Catering or equivalent qualification.
* Basic Food Hygiene Certificate (CIEH Level 2).
* Minimum of 3 years' catering experience in a healthcare or large-scale establishment.
* Proven experience supervising and managing kitchen staff.
* Strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills.
Desirable Criteria:
* Intermediate Food Hygiene Certificate (CIEH Level 3).
* Experience working in hospital or healthcare catering.
* Knowledge of dietary requirements and allergen management.
* Experience supporting menu development or service improvement initiatives.
Additional Information
* Must adhere to Trust policies, values, and health & safety standards.
* Flexibility required for occasional evening or weekend work.
* Job description may be updated to meet service needs
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