Head Chef – Hampshire Hospitals
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to join us at Hampshire Hospitals. The Head Chef is a key leadership role responsible for the operational management of the kitchen and restaurant, ensuring the delivery of a high‑quality catering service in line with national standards, legislation and Trust policies. The post holder will lead and develop the catering team to provide nutritious, well‑presented meals for patients, staff and visitors, maintaining strict compliance with food safety, hygiene and health regulations. This role includes oversight of menu planning, staff supervision and daily operational efficiency while supporting team performance across early and late shifts.
Responsibilities
* Lead the kitchen team in preparing and cooking high‑quality meals for patients, staff and visitors.
* Oversee special dietary requirements, ensuring allergen compliance and minimal risk of cross‑contamination.
* Monitor food hygiene standards, portion control and presentation, ensuring consistency in quality.
* Ensure all food service processes adhere to NHS Trust guidelines, HACCP protocols and legal food safety regulations.
Menu Planning & Nutrition
* Develop menus that meet patient dietary needs, cultural preferences and nutritional standards.
* Liaise with dietitians and clinical teams to accommodate special diets.
* Incorporate seasonal and sustainable ingredients into menu planning.
Team Leadership & Staff Development
* Supervise, train and motivate catering staff; manage rota and performance.
* Support recruitment and mentor staff to build a skilled, motivated team.
* Promote a positive and safe working environment.
Compliance & Safety
* Conduct regular audits and risk assessments; ensure adherence to Trust policies.
* Manage allergen data and labelling in accordance with current legislation.
* Respond to complaints and incidents according to Trust policy.
Budget & Stock Control
* Manage food procurement, stock levels and waste reduction to maintain cost efficiency.
* Monitor budgets and plan efficient staff rota.
Disability Confident
Hampshire Hospitals are a Disability Confident employer. We will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. In certain recruitment situations such as high‑volume, seasonal and high‑peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled and non‑disabled people.
About Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
The Trust provides medical and surgical services to a population of approximately 600,000 people across Hampshire and parts of West Berkshire. With three sites—Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester and Andover War Memorial Hospital—our vision is to provide outstanding care for every patient. We are a foundation trust with a turnover of over £500 million a year and employ more than 9,000 staff, committed to a culture that places people at the heart of all we do.
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