We’re looking for an exceptional Head Chef to help launch our brand-new restaurant Yarrow at The Willowbury Retirement Village in West Malling. This is a rare opportunity to shape the food offering from day one and play a key role in creating a dining experience residents will genuinely look forward to every day.
As Head Chef, you’ll oversee all aspects of the kitchen operation - from seasonal menu creation and hospitality events to team leadership, food safety, and commercial performance - delivering restaurant-quality dining within a state-of-the-art retirement community.
Key Responsibilities
Culinary Leadership & Menu Development
* Create fresh, seasonal, and nutritious menus tailored to residents’ tastes and dietary needs
* Champion locally sourced ingredients and high-quality produce wherever possible
* Lead catering for special events, private dining, and village hospitality functions
* Maintain accurate recipe, allergen, and menu data within procurement and EPoS systems
Kitchen Operations & Commercial Management
* Lead and inspire the kitchen team, managing rotas, performance, and day-to-day operations
* Manage stock control, ordering, and monthly stocktakes effectively
* Deliver strong food margins while maintaining exceptional quality standards
* Drive operational efficiency and cost-effective procurement practices
Food Safety & Compliance
* Maintain the highest standards of food hygiene, health & safety, and kitchen compliance
* Conduct daily kitchen and dining area checks to ensure consistency and cleanliness
* Ensure equipment maintenance, audits, and compliance records are fully up to date
Team Development & Culture
* Build a positive, collaborative, and high-performing kitchen culture
* Support recruitment, onboarding, and ongoing development of kitchen staff
* Create Personal Development Plans (PDPs) and training opportunities for the team
Resident Experience
* Engage regularly with residents to gather feedback and continuously enhance the dining experience
* Help create a warm, welcoming restaurant atmosphere that reflects the community spirit of the village
About You
Essential
* Level 3 Professional Cookery qualification (or equivalent)
* Previous experience as a Head Chef or strong Senior Sous Chef within a quality-led environment
* Passion for delivering high-quality, fresh food
* Proven experience managing teams, budgets, and kitchen operations
* Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills
* Understanding of the nutritional and dietary needs of older adults
* Willingness to complete an enhanced DBS check
Desirable
* Experience within hospitality, care, or retirement living environments
* Experience with event catering and hospitality functions
* Knowledge of kitchen management systems and Microsoft Office
Our Values
* Age Well – Supporting people to live life to the fullest
* Community – Creating meaningful connections every day
* Keep Improving – Continuously learning and evolving
* Planet Positive – Acting responsibly for our environment
* One Team – Working together with trust and respect
What We Offer
* Competitive salary and benefits package
* Brand-new kitchen and restaurant facilities
* Ongoing learning and development opportunities
* The opportunity to shape and grow a flagship restaurant from launch