Head Cook

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Food Preparation and Service

• Plan and prepare daily meals in accordance with approved menus and nutritional guidelines. 
• Ensure meals are prepared on time and served in a professional manner. 
• Prepare meals for meetings, trainings, workshops, and special events as required. 
• Ensure food quality, taste, and presentation meet institutional standards. 

Kitchen Operations

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen, pantry, and food preparation areas. 
• Ensure all kitchen equipment is properly used, cleaned, and maintained. 
• Report faulty equipment and maintenance needs promptly. 
• Ensure proper storage of food to prevent spoilage and contamination. 

Food Safety and Hygiene

• Adhere to food safety regulations and hygiene standards at all times. 
• Ensure safe food handling, preparation, storage, and disposal practices. 
• Maintain high standards of personal hygiene and ensure kitchen cleanliness. 
• Monitor food temperatures and storage conditions. 

Inventory and Stock Management

• Monitor food inventory and maintain adequate stock levels. 
• Prepare shopping lists and requisitions for food supplies and kitchen consumables. 
• Receive and verify deliveries for quality and quantity. 
• Minimize wastage through proper planning and portion control. 

Budget and Cost Control

• Ensure economical use of food supplies and kitchen resources. 
• Assist in monitoring food costs and reducing unnecessary expenses. 
• Recommend cost-effective purchasing options without compromising quality. 

Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

• Excellent food preparation, presentation, and menu planning skills. 
• Good knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and infection prevention standards. 
• Strong organizational and time management skills. 
• Good inventory management and cost control skills. 
• Excellent supervisory and leadership skills, with the ability to coordinate kitchen assistants and support staff. 
• A strong team player with the ability to work collaboratively with clinical, administrative, and support teams. 
• Good communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure while maintaining high-quality standards. 
• Flexibility to work on shift schedules, weekends, public holidays, and during emergencies as required by the institution.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and customer service orientation.
• Perform any other duties assigned by the supervisor that are consistent with the role