Head Chef - Exclusive Wedding & Events Venue |Nr Fleet Hampshire | £48,000 + Bonus + Paid Overtime

Salary: £48,000 per annum + Annual Bonus + Paid Overtime

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen at a stunning exclusive-use wedding and events venue in Hampshire.

We are looking for a passionate and hands-on Head Chef who enjoys leading from the front and delivering exceptional food using fresh, seasonal ingredients. This is a fantastic opportunity to take ownership of a busy events kitchen within a beautifully maintained venue, supported by an experienced senior management team.

The Role

As Head Chef, you will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the kitchen, ensuring consistently high food standards while leading and developing your team. You'll oversee weddings, private events, and functions, delivering outstanding dining experiences for up to 100+ guests.

Working closely with the General Manager and Group Executive Chef, you'll play a key role in maintaining quality, controlling costs, and driving operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day operation of the kitchen
• Prepare and deliver high-quality dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients
• Manage and develop the kitchen team
• Plan rotas, manage holidays, and support team development
• Oversee ordering, stock control, and monthly stock takes
• Ensure food safety, allergen compliance, and kitchen hygiene standards are maintained
• Manage food costs and labour budgets effectively
• Work collaboratively with senior management to continually enhance the food offering

About You

• Previous experience as a Head Chef or experienced Senior Sous Chef ready to step up
• Strong background within quality food-led establishments
• Experience catering for functions and events of 100+ covers
• Passion for producing exceptional food from fresh ingredients
• Confident managing kitchen operations, stock control, food safety, and team rotas
• Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills
• Calm under pressure with a positive, hands-on approach
• Own transport is essential due to the rural location
• Full right to work in the UK

What's on Offer

• £48,000 basic salary
• Annual performance bonus
• Paid overtime
• Company pension scheme
• Full chef uniform provided and laundered
• Ongoing professional training, including Food Safety Level 3, First Aid, Fire Safety, and Mental Health Awareness
• Opportunity to work alongside experienced hospitality professionals within a supportive environment
• Career development and progression opportunities
• Annual chef competitions and team social events
• Employee discounts and reward platform
• Modern, well-equipped kitchens with quality equipment and fresh produce

This is an outstanding opportunity for an ambitious Chef looking to join a quality-driven hospitality business where creativity, teamwork, and fresh food are at the heart of everything they do.

Apply today for a confidential discussion.