Job Description

At Retirement Villages Group, we believe that ageing should be about freedom, not compromise. We’re on a mission to redefine retirement living in the UK - creating inclusive, vibrant communities where individuals live independently, stay connected, and age well on their own terms.

We are now recruiting an experienced and passionate Head Chef to join our brand-new restaurant at Lime Tree Retirement Village. This is a rare opportunity to shape the culinary identity of a new restaurant, establish standards from day one, and create an outstanding resident dining experience.

This role would suit a hands-on Head Chef who enjoys autonomy, thrives in a smaller team environment, and takes pride in delivering excellent food while leading by example.

As Head Chef, you will take full ownership of the kitchen operation, overseeing food quality, menu development, compliance, team leadership, and resident satisfaction. You’ll work closely with the village leadership team to create a welcoming and memorable dining experience for residents, families, and guests.

You will lead a close-knit kitchen team, remaining operationally involved in service while managing standards, stock, costs, and performance.

Key Responsibilities

Culinary Leadership & Menu Development

• Design seasonal, nutritious, and flavour-led menus tailored to resident preferences and dietary needs
• Champion fresh, high-quality, locally sourced ingredients wherever possible
• Deliver hospitality and special event catering across the village
• Continually review and improve menus based on feedback and trends
• Maintain accurate recipe, allergen, and dish information within internal systems

Kitchen Operations

• Lead the day-to-day running of the kitchen and service delivery
• Manage rotas, staffing levels, and team performance
• Maintain high presentation, portion, and consistency standards
• Ensure smooth and efficient service across all meal periods
• Take a proactive, hands-on approach during busy services

Commercial & Stock Control

• Manage food purchasing, stock levels, and monthly stocktakes
• Drive strong gross profit margins through smart ordering and waste control
• Deliver excellent quality while operating within budget targets

Food Safety & Compliance

• Maintain exceptional food hygiene, HACCP, and health & safety standards
• Complete regular kitchen checks and audits
• Ensure all kitchen equipment is maintained and reported where necessary
• Keep compliance records accurate and up to date

Team Leadership

• Build a positive, professional, and supportive kitchen culture
• Train, coach, and develop team members through daily leadership
• Support recruitment and onboarding as the village grows
• Lead by example in standards, attitude, and work ethic

Resident Experience

• Engage positively with residents and gather regular feedback
• Create a warm, inclusive, and enjoyable dining atmosphere
• Adapt menus and service to meet changing resident needs

About You

Essential

• NVQ / Level 3 Professional Cookery or equivalent
• Previous experience as a Head Chef or strong Senior Sous Chef ready to step up
• Strong fresh food background with excellent culinary standards
• Experience managing kitchen budgets, GP, stock, and labour costs
• Confident leading a small team in a hands-on environment
• Able to work independently, prioritise effectively, and use your own initiative
• Strong communication and leadership skills
• Good understanding of dietary and nutritional needs of older adults
• Willingness to complete an enhanced DBS check

Desirable

• Experience within hospitality, healthcare, or retirement living
• Event / function catering experience
• Knowledge of EPoS, ordering systems, and Microsoft Office

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Brand-new purpose-built kitchen and facilities
• Free meals on shift
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities
• Supportive culture with wellbeing and recognition initiatives
• The chance to build and shape something from the beginning

Apply Now

If you’re a passionate chef who enjoys leading from the front, creating quality food, and making a genuine difference to people’s daily lives, we’d love to hear from you!