Head Chef

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’re now recruiting a talented Head Chef to join us at Botanical Place, West Byfleet - our brand-new Thrive village, opening its doors to a bold new chapter in retirement living. This is an incredibly exciting time to join, helping shape the culinary identity of the village from day one.

As Head Chef, you’ll 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.

Key Responsibilities

Menu Development & Culinary Leadership

• Create seasonal, nutritious, and flavourful menus tailored to residents’ needs and tastes
• Champion fresh, locally sourced ingredients wherever possible
• Lead special event and hospitality catering across the village
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date dish data in procurement and EPoS systems

Kitchen Operations & Budget Management

• Manage kitchen staff, schedules, and performance
• Control kitchen budgets, stock levels, and monthly stocktakes
• Drive cost-effective procurement and food margin optimisation
• Ensure delivery of exceptional quality alongside commercial efficiency

Food Safety & Compliance

• Uphold rigorous food hygiene and H&S standards at all times
• Complete daily walk-throughs of kitchen and dining areas
• Keep all equipment maintained and audits up to date using internal systems

Team Development

• Lead a positive, collaborative kitchen culture
• Support recruitment and onboarding of new staff
• Design Personal Development Plans (PDPs) and training for chefs and support staff

Resident Experience

• Interact with residents, gathering feedback and continuously enhancing the offering
• 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’d love to hear from you!