Assistant Chef reference: R1197963

Discover Your Culinary Passion at Dean Wood Care Home: Assistant Chef Opportunity

Are you a talented and dedicated chef with a passion for creating delicious and nutritious meals? Do you thrive in an environment where you can make a tangible difference in people's lives? Dean Wood Care Home, part of the esteemed Bupa family, is seeking a motivated Assistant Chef to join their vibrant kitchen team. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the well-being of residents while advancing your culinary career.

Why This Role is a Great Career Move:

• Meaningful Impact: At Bupa, the focus is on "making health happen." As an Assistant Chef, you'll be instrumental in providing residents with the nourishment and comfort they need, directly contributing to their quality of life and well-being. This is more than just a job; it's a chance to nurture and care.
• Culinary Creativity & Development: This position isn't just about following recipes. You'll have the opportunity to use your passion for fresh ingredients to create varied and nutritional menus, catering to the diverse dietary needs and preferences of the residents. You'll also be encouraged to put forward innovative ideas to enhance the overall dining experience, making residents feel truly at home.
• Team Leadership & Growth: The role involves training and managing the kitchen team, providing valuable experience in leadership and operational management. You'll hone your skills in prepping, cooking, and serving, while also ensuring adherence to critical safety and hygiene standards.
• Stable & Rewarding Employment: This is a permanent, full-time position (30 hours per week) with a competitive hourly rate of £12.59 - £14.10. The structured shift pattern (3 x 7 am - 5 pm, including alternate weekends) offers a degree of predictability, and the inclusion of alternate weekends allows for a better work-life balance.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Bupa is committed to the well-being of its employees. As an Assistant Chef, you'll benefit from:
  • My Healthcare: 24/7 access to remote GP appointments, physiotherapy, and mental health support.
  • Healthcare Allowance: An annual allowance to redeem against Bupa healthcare products.
  • Long Service Rewards: Recognition and rewards for your commitment.
  • Wagestream: Early access to up to 40% of your earned wages.
  • Pension Plans: Access to Bupa's pension schemes.
  • Parental Leave: Generous schemes for various family situations.
  • Gym & Fitness Discounts: Access to discounts at a wide range of fitness facilities.
  • Work-Life Balance: A focus on ensuring you have time for yourself and loved ones.
• Inclusive & Supportive Culture: Bupa champions diversity and inclusion, encouraging everyone to "Be you at Bupa." As a Disability Confident employer, they offer guaranteed interviews to disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria, ensuring a fair and supportive recruitment process.

Key Considerations for Aspiring Candidates:

• Passion for Food & Resident Well-being: The ideal candidate possesses a genuine love for cooking, a strong understanding of fresh ingredients, and a heartfelt desire to make residents feel cherished and at home.
• Culinary Experience & Hygiene: Previous experience working in a fresh food kitchen and holding relevant hygiene certificates are essential. You should be adept at adhering to COSHH and HACCP guidelines.
• Adaptability & Innovation: While maintaining high standards, you should be open to new ideas and bring an innovative approach to your cooking. The ability to cater to special events and seasonal activities is also a plus.
• Communication & Teamwork: Strong communication skills are vital for effective collaboration with the kitchen team and for building positive relationships with residents.
• Commitment to Quality: You must be committed to delivering an excellent dining experience at every meal, upholding the high standards expected at Bupa.

If you are a skilled and compassionate chef looking for a role where your culinary talents can make a profound difference, this Assistant Chef position at Dean Wood Care Home presents an exceptional opportunity. Embrace a career that nourishes both body and soul.