Head Chef - Boutique Hotel Company - Upto 42.5K

Head Chef - Boutique Hotel Company - Up To £42,500 + Benefits - Buckinghamshire

IMMEDIATE START

My client is a boutique hotel nestled in the scenic countryside of Buckinghamshire, offering guests a luxurious, personal experience with locally inspired food and warm hospitality. We're proud to champion quality, sustainability, and creativity in our kitchens. We are now seeking a talented and driven Head Chef to lead our culinary team and elevate our food offering.

Role Summary:

As Head Chef, you will take full ownership of the kitchen operation, from creating and delivering seasonal menus to developing your team and managing budgets. You'll be responsible for delivering a memorable dining experience that reflects the character of the hotel and the region.

This is a hands-on role, perfect for a chef with a passion for fresh, locally sourced food and a proven track record in boutique hotels, high-end restaurants, or gastro pubs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the kitchen team in delivering consistently high-quality food across breakfast, lunch, dinner, and events.

• Develop and execute seasonal menus using locally sourced and sustainable ingredients.

• Ensure all food is prepared to the highest standard of quality, presentation, and taste.

• Control stock, manage food costs and GP, and reduce kitchen waste.

• Recruit, train, and mentor junior chefs and kitchen staff.

• Understands all about running events & banqueting

• Ensure full compliance with food safety, health, and hygiene standards (HACCP).

• Work closely with the General Manager and Front of House team to ensure smooth kitchen operations and a seamless guest experience.

• Take a proactive role in promoting the restaurant and hotel through menu design, themed evenings, and seasonal specials.

• Liaise with local suppliers and farmers to champion regional produce.

Person Specification:

• Experience as a Head Chef or strong Sous Chef in a boutique hotel, gastro pub, or fine dining setting.

• Creative, passionate, and knowledgeable about current food trends and regional British cuisine.

• Able to lead and inspire a small team, while maintaining a positive and professional kitchen culture.

• Strong understanding of food costings, budget control, and kitchen management systems.

• Excellent communication and organisational skills.

• Food Safety Level 3 (or higher) and strong knowledge of allergen and HACCP procedures.

• A strong work ethic and flexibility - including weekends, evenings, and special events.

Working Hours:

• Full-time role, typically 45-50 hours per week.

• Must be flexible to work weekends, early mornings, and evenings based on hotel service needs.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary (dependent on experience)

• Opportunities for career growth within a growing boutique hotel group

• Meals on duty

• Staff discounts across the hotel group (rooms, dining, spa, etc.)

• Uniform provided

• Pension scheme

• 28 days paid holiday (including bank holidays)