Jobs in Elstow

Location: Oak Manor, Shefford

Hours: 40 hours per week

Salary: £16.46 per hour (£17.11 per hour from 1st April)

For this role, we are currently considering candidates who live within approximately 15 miles of the Scheme. This ensures commutes are manageable and support your wellbeing and work-life balance. If you live outside this area but would still find the commute manageable, please get in touch - we are happy to review individual circumstances.

About the role

We are looking for an experienced and motivated Catering Manager to lead the catering service within our home. This is a key role, ensuring residents receive nutritious, high-quality meals that respect individual choice and support health and wellbeing.

As Catering Manager, you will oversee all aspects of the kitchen operation, including menu planning, food safety, budgeting and staff management. You will be part of the home’s senior team, working closely with colleagues and the MHA Hospitality team to continually develop and improve the catering service.

What you will do

Prepare, cook and serve nutritious meals for residents, visitors and staff, including catering for special events.

Plan balanced and attractive menus that meet residents’ nutritional, cultural and dietary needs, including those living with dementia.

Manage and supervise kitchen staff, including rotas, training, inductions, supervision and appraisals.

Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, health & safety and HACCP requirements, maintaining accurate records and audits.

Manage food ordering and stock control, working within agreed budgets and financial plans.

Maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene and safety within all kitchen and food storage areas.

Work closely with health professionals such as dietitians and speech and language therapists to support resident safety and nutrition.

Promote residents’ dignity, choice and wellbeing, in line with MHA’s values.

Contribute to the home’s catering business plan and raise the profile of catering within the home and MHA.

About you

We are looking for someone who is organised, passionate about food and committed to delivering a high-quality catering service for older people.

You will bring:

Relevant catering qualifications (e.g. City & Guilds Level 1 or 2, NVQ Level 2 in Catering or equivalent).

Strong knowledge of food hygiene, HACCP and health & safety requirements.

Experience of managing or leading a kitchen team, ideally in a care, hospitality or similar setting.

Experience of menu planning, stock control and budget management.

Knowledge of the nutritional needs of older people and special diets.

Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a wider team.

Why join MHA?

You will be joining an organisation with strong values, a supportive culture and a genuine commitment to helping people live later life well. At MHA, catering plays a vital role in residents’ wellbeing, and your work will be valued and appreciated.

Rewards and benefits

In addition to a competitive salary, you will enjoy:

28 days holiday (including bank holidays) and an option to buy annual leave (pro-rota for part time).

A strong pension scheme and life assurance

Free DBS checks and uniforms (where applicable)

Confidential counselling, chaplaincy support and access to our hardship fund

Flexible options to buy or sell annual leave, plus family-friendly policies

Discounts through the Blue Light Card, Health Service Discounts and the Vivup app

A full induction, ongoing training and development opportunities

Long service awards to recognise your contribution

About the home

Oak Manor care home in Shefford

Oak Manor is an inviting home where colleagues work collaboratively to deliver high-quality, person-centred care. With its modern design and peaceful surroundings, the home offers a positive backdrop for colleagues who want to make a meaningful impact.

The team culture is supportive and friendly, helping new colleagues settle quickly and feel valued. Guided by MHA’s charitable ethos, colleagues work together with empathy, respect and a shared commitment to helping residents live well.

For job seekers looking to join a team that encourages growth and celebrates contribution, Oak Manor provides a rewarding and purpose-led place to work.

For more information about the home, please click 

Please note that interviews may take place prior to the closing date and if a suitable candidate is appointed the role may close early.

Recruitment agencies: please note, MHA do not accept unsolicited CVs from recruitment agencies, regardless of whether they are on our Preferred Supplier List (PSL). We only accept CVs from agencies that have been appointed and briefed by MHA’s Recruitment Team