Overview
At Retirement Villages Group, we believe that ageing should be about freedom, not compromise. We are on a mission to redefine retirement living in the UK by creating inclusive, vibrant communities where individuals live independently, stay connected, and age well on their own terms. We are recruiting a Head Chef for Botanical Place, West Byfleet – our brand-new Thrive village opening its doors to a bold new chapter in retirement living. As Head Chef, you will 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.
Responsibilities
* Menu Development & Culinary Leadership
o Create seasonal, nutritious, and flavourful menus tailored to residents\' needs and tastes
o Champion fresh, locally sourced ingredients wherever possible
o Lead special event and hospitality catering across the village
o Maintain accurate dish data in procurement and EPoS systems
* Kitchen Operations & Budget Management
o Manage kitchen staff, schedules, and performance
o Control kitchen budgets, stock levels, and monthly stocktakes
o Drive cost-effective procurement and food margin optimisation
o Ensure delivery of exceptional quality alongside commercial efficiency
* Food Safety & Compliance
o Uphold rigorous food hygiene and H&S standards at all times
o Complete daily walk-throughs of kitchen and dining areas
o Keep all equipment maintained and audits up to date using internal systems
* Team Development
o Lead a positive, collaborative kitchen culture
o Support recruitment and onboarding of new staff
o Design Personal Development Plans (PDPs) and training for chefs and support staff
* Resident Experience
o Interact with residents, gathering feedback and continuously enhancing the offering
o 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
We Offer
* Competitive salary and benefits package
* Brand new, purpose-built facilities with modern kitchens and equipment
* Learning and development opportunities
* Supportive culture with wellbeing and recognition initiatives
* A chance to build something from the ground up in a flagship community
Botanical Place is more than a new location - it\'s a new vision. If you\'re ready to make your mark and lead a passionate team in a fresh, purpose-driven environment, we would love to hear from you!
#J-18808-Ljbffr