Head Chef

The Nici; Bournemouth; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Service charge

Staff discounts

Training & development

Career progression

Meals on duty

Job summary

THE NICI Collection in Bournemouth is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead the South Beach kitchen. You will drive the food program, oversee day-to-day service, and work with the Food & Beverage team to deliver high-quality, guest-focused dining experiences.

You will manage costs, maintain food safety standards, mentor chefs, develop seasonal menus, and contribute to the growth of our luxury hotel group with a hands-on, inspiring leadership style.

Qualifications

• Proven Head Chef experience in high-volume hotel kitchens.
• Strong leadership and people development skills.
• Excellent knowledge of seasonal, local ingredients.

Responsibilities

• Lead the South Beach kitchen team and manage day-to-day service to consistently high standards.
• Develop and deliver menus reflecting the South Beach style with seasonal ingredients.
• Maintain food quality, presentation and consistency across services.
• Work with the wider Food & Beverage team to create memorable guest experiences.
• Manage food costs, GP, stock, ordering and wastage; ensure food safety and health & safety standards.

Skills

Menu development

Team leadership

Food safety

Cost control

Creative cooking

Job description

About THE NICI Collection

THE NICI Collection is a luxury lifestyle hotel group inspired by some of the world's most iconic destinations, bringing exceptional hospitality, outstanding food and drink, and unforgettable guest experiences to some of the UK's most desirable locations.

What began with THE NICI Bournemouth, our flagship hotel inspired by Miami's South Beach, has grown into an exciting collection of destination‑led properties. In June 2026, the collection expanded with the opening of THE NICI Newquay, inspired by Italy's Amalfi Coast, and THE NICI New Forest, inspired by the luxury and charm of the Hamptons.

This marks an exciting new chapter for THE NICI Collection — and it's only the beginning. As we continue to grow, we are looking for passionate hospitality professionals to join our team and help create memorable experiences for our guests.

The Role

We’re now looking for an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead the kitchen team at South Beach.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a creative, hands‑on chef who is passionate about great food, enjoys leading and developing people, and wants to play a key role in shaping the food offering at one of Bournemouth’s most exciting coastal destinations.

You’ll take ownership of the kitchen operation, working closely with the wider Food & Beverage team to deliver consistently high‑quality food and memorable experiences for our guests.

What you’ll be doing

• Lead, motivate and develop the South Beach kitchen team, creating a positive and high‑performing kitchen culture.
• Take ownership of the day‑to‑day running of the kitchen and ensure every service is delivered to a consistently high standard.
• Develop and deliver menus that reflect the South Beach style, making the most of seasonal and local ingredients.
• Maintain excellent standards of food quality, presentation and consistency across all services.
• Work closely with the wider Food & Beverage team to create memorable guest experiences.
• Manage food costs, GP, stock, ordering and wastage effectively.
• Ensure all food safety, hygiene and health & safety standards are maintained.
• Be hands‑on during service and lead by example, particularly during busy periods.
• Support the development of new dishes, seasonal menus and food concepts.
• Coach and develop chefs at all levels, helping them build their skills and careers.
• Ensure the kitchen operates efficiently while maintaining the quality and personality that guests expect from South Beach.

What we’re looking for

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has proven experience as a Head Chef, or is an experienced Sous Chef ready to take the next step.
• Is genuinely passionate about food and takes pride in what leaves the kitchen.
• Is a confident and inspiring leader who knows how to get the best out of their team.
• Has strong commercial awareness and understands the importance of food costs, GP and wastage.
• Is creative, organised and able to thrive in a busy, high‑volume environment.
• Has a strong understanding of fresh, seasonal produce and modern cooking.
• Leads from the front and isn’t afraid to get stuck in.
• Has high standards but creates a positive environment for their team.
• Wants to be part of a growing hospitality business where there is plenty of opportunity to make an impact.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary plus service charge.
• Staff discounts across THE NICI Collection.
• Training and development opportunities.
• Career progression within a growing luxury hotel group.
• Meals on duty.

Join Us

Join THE NICI Collection and be part of an exciting growth story where exceptional hospitality, luxury experiences, and memorable moments are at the heart of everything we do.

Compensation: To be discussed