Head Chef

Leonardo Hotel Exeter; Exeter; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Special rates on hotel rooms across UK

Company-wide recognition scheme

Talent referral scheme

Wellbeing calendar

Ongoing training programmes

Job summary

Leonardo Hotel Exeter is seeking a Head Chef to lead the Kitchen department, directing daily operations, shaping menus, and controlling costs to maximise profit while ensuring guest satisfaction. You will mentor the team, drive performance and embrace the Leonardo hospitality standards across the hotel.

As a pivotal ambassador for the Leonardo brand, you’ll foster a culture of excellence, support progression through senior chef programmes, and collaborate with other departments to deliver

Responsibilities

• Direct the Kitchen department daily operations and ensure high food quality and service standards.
• Design innovative menus and dishes while managing food costs and waste.
• Lead, mentor and develop kitchen team, fostering a collaborative, high-performance culture.
• Collaborate with hotel departments to deliver memorable guest experiences and drive revenue.

Job description

Be Yourself – Be a Bold Team Player – Be LeonardoOnce you’re part of the team, you’re part of the Leonardo community of over 55 hotels across the UK & Ireland!The Head Chef will direct the strategic initiatives and objectives of the Kitchen department, as well as managing day to day operations through the engagement of the team. All members of the department work together to create memorable moments for guests, in line with both company and hotel-specific service standards, and collaborate closely with other departments within the hotel. You will act as an ambassador for your own hotel and the wider Leonardo Hotels estate, demonstrating the company vision, mission and values. At all times, you will treat others around you with respect, dignity and fairness.As a Head Chef, you’ll be keeping your department running like clockwork and leading your team to ensure our guests have an incredible experience with us. Take a deep breath because you’ll be stepping into a busy role! You’ll think creatively to design food menus and items, and be in control of cost management in the Kitchen. You’ll also be nurturing the talent within your Kitchen, showing patience and understanding to all colleagues, and inspiring a vibrant team to exceed our guests’ expectations.If you’re our ideal Head Chef, you will:Keep the department calm, composed and organised – we don’t let it get too hotBe a role model for the department to support progression within your teamBe proactive and contribute in the strategic running of the hotelAspire to grow with us – with our amazing Senior Chef Programme, you can take your skills and career to the next levelShow us the money and drive revenue whilst controlling costs, maximising profit for the KitchenAnd above all, be a trendsetter – lead the way!Some of the perks our Head Chef could enjoy include:Special rates on Leonardo Hotel rooms across the UK & EuropeCompany-wide recognition scheme: you could earn vouchers to spend on a wide range of high street shopsTalent referral schemeThank You Week: from ice cream trucks to yoga classes and lots in between!Wellbeing CalendarOngoing job-related training programmes with clear paths for progressionWe’re committed to creating a workplace where every individual—regardless of background, identity, or lived experience—is welcomed, valued, and respected for who they are. Belonging means embracing our differences and ensuring everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered.Why come join us as a Head Chef?We look after our colleagues just as well as we look after our guests. Our regular Learning Bites, “Come Join Us Guest Care” training and Wellbeing webinars all help your progress with us. With support on tap, top-notch practical training and clear progression you’ll be on track for a brilliant future in Hospitality!