Head Chef

The Head Chef will deliver the catering provision for YMCA Fairthorne Group, leading the catering staff team to create a culture of catering excellence and inspirational customer service. The catering provision helps to ensure the continued development of children and other members of the communities in which we work by providing exciting fresh menus which take into account nutrition and allergens at all times. This role is primarily based at Fairthorne Manor near Botley, the role may require travel to other branches within Hampshire and Isle of Wight. Main Duties & Responsibilities:

• Ensure the delivery of high quality catering service across YMCA
• Provide positive leadership, set and maintain an example of best practice at all times
• Effective management of the Catering team to include training and professional development, regular 1:1's and staffing rotas to meet business requirements
• In partnership with local colleges, support and mentor young people undertaking catering experience at YMCA
• Maintain and control catering budgets
• Take responsibility for all elements of the kitchen, including but not limited to preparation, cooking and delivery
• Ensure retention of 5-star EHO, act as the liaison with the local EHO department to ensure both statutory and legislative compliance to include maintenance of relevant paperwork
• Ensure accurate administration for the maintenance of catering equipment, staff training and cleaning schedules including COSHH and risk assessments
• Provide internal food handling advice where required
• To write and design exciting fresh menus and implement to include nursery lunch and tea, school trips, adult groups and events; controlling allergens, costs and nutrition at all times
• Maintain a customer centred culture which actively responds to customer feedback
• Use of procurement system, using nominated suppliers and do monthly stock checks, looking at best price purchasing
• Ensure YMCA policies and procedures are followed at all times including, but not limited to, Safer Food Better Business (HACCP), COSHH, health & safety, and safeguarding. Update the YMCA Catering Policy when necessary with government guidance
• Ensure all allergens are identified and managed, enabling YMCA to meet all dietary needs safely
  
  Hospitality and Catering qualification
• Previous experience of managing a team
• Previous practical knowledge of catering for 100-400 people
• A passion for producing high quality food and attention to detail
• Basic knowledge of health and safety
• Knowledge of children and babies' nutritional needs
• Food hygiene qualifications including allergen
• Knowledge of health and safety or willingness to train
Personal Attributes:
• Remains focussed in a busy environment
• A genuine enthusiasm for the work of YMCA, including willingness to step in and help others in the Fairthorne Manor team
• Ability and willingness to relate positively to customers (many of whom are children) and staff
• Ability to motivate others
• Ability to work to a strict timetable and to tight deadlines
• A creative and flexible approach to the work of the organisation
Successful applicant will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure via Disclosure and Barring Service.


• Employer pension
• 25 days holiday FTE, increasing with length of service up to a maximum of 30 days
• Additional leave to purchase (up to 10 days per annum)
• Celebration Leave
• Life insurance
• 50% discount on nursery fees
• Day camps discounts: 1 week free and 1 week at 50% per child per annum
• Campsite and activities discounts at YMCA Fairthorne Manor
• 30% discount on food
• Wellbeing assistance programme
• Cycle to work scheme.