Executive Chef: Lead a Signature Resort Kitchen

The Nici Lymington; Pennington; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

THE NICI New Forest is seeking an Executive Chef to own the culinary operation across the resort, uniting restaurant dining, all-day service and events with a clear culinary identity. You will lead the kitchen leadership team, establish standards, and drive profitability while delivering exceptional guest experience.

The role requires a strong culinary background, senior leadership experience in hospitality, and the ability to recruit and develop a large kitchen team to sustain a busy resort

Qualifications

• Senior-level experience in hotel/resort food operations.
• Experience managing multiple outlets or high-volume service.
• Strong culinary background with menu development experience.
• Commercial acumen in food cost, GP, labour and purchasing.

Responsibilities

• Set overall food direction for THE NICI New Forest.
• Shape menus for Martha's and Elm's Café with distinct identities.
• Lead kitchen leadership team and establish standards.
• Build brigade structure for high-volume service and profitability.
• Develop chefs and kitchen leaders through coaching and training.
• Ensure food safety, allergens, and kitchen compliance.

Skills

Senior-level leadership

Multi-outlet management

Menu development

Food cost & GP management

Food safety & compliance

Team recruitment & development

Excellent communication

Strategic leadership

Job description

THE NICI New Forest is seeking an Executive Chef to own the culinary operation across the resort, uniting restaurant dining, all-day service and events with a clear culinary identity. You will lead the kitchen leadership team, establish standards, and drive profitability while delivering exceptional guest experience.

The role requires a strong culinary background, senior leadership experience in hospitality, and the ability to recruit and develop a large kitchen team to sustain a busy resort