Head Chef

www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk - Jobboard; Keswick; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A 4-star hotel and spa in the Western Lake District is seeking a dynamic Head Chef to lead their culinary team. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record, at least two years of experience, and will oversee all banqueting requirements while maintaining exceptional food quality. This role offers a highly competitive salary of £50,000 per year, generous staff discounts, and career progression opportunities. Join us to lead in a stunning location, creating inspiring dining experiences.

Benefits

50% off food & accommodation

Career progression training

Staff meals while on duty

Annual salary reviews

28+ days holidays increasing with service

Qualifications

• At least two years of experience as a Head Chef in a 4-star or award-winning luxury hotel.
• Ability to develop and motivate a team of 10 chefs.
• Strong grasp of P&L, GP, menu costing, wage budgeting, and purchasing.
• Commitment to maintaining exceptional food quality and presentation.
• Ensuring compliance with health & safety, COSHH, allergens, and food safety regulations.
• Passion for menu development and pushing culinary boundaries.
• Hands-on approach with flexibility to adapt to demands.

Responsibilities

• Lead the culinary team within a 4-star hotel and spa.
• Oversee all banqueting requirements.
• Ensure a stunning dining experience from fine dining to bar meals.
• Foster commitment and excellence within the team.

Skills

Proven expertise in culinary arts

Inspirational leadership

Business acumen in P&L, menu costing

High standards of food quality

Meticulous organisation

Creative vision for menu development

Flexibility in a hospitality environment

Job description

We are seeking a dynamic Head Chef to lead the culinary team within a 4-star hotel and spa in the Western Lake District, Cumbria. This is a fantastic opportunity for a talented professional with a proven track record to take full ownership of their brasserie and oversee all banqueting requirements.

With creativity, leadership, and enthusiasm at the heart of this role, the employer offers a highly competitive salary and bonus scheme in recognition of your dedication.

They offer an exceptional dining experience, from fine dining to relaxed bar meals and light lunches. They also cater for weddings and large-scale events, ensuring every dish is crafted to perfection.

This is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to lead, create, and inspire in a stunning location.

About you:
Proven expertise – At least two years of experience as a Head Chef in a 4-star or award-winning luxury hotel.
Inspirational leadership – The ability to develop and motivate a team of 10 chefs, fostering commitment and excellence.
Business acumen – A strong grasp of P&L, GP, menu costing, wage budgeting, and purchasing.
High standards – A commitment to maintaining exceptional food quality, presentation, and consistency.
Meticulous organisation – Ensuring compliance with health & safety, COSHH, allergens, and food safety regulations.
Creative vision – A passion for menu development, pushing culinary boundaries, and driving the business forward.
Flexibility & dedication – A hands-on approach and the ability to adapt to the demands of a vibrant hospitality environment.

Salary and benefits:
Salary of £50,000 per year – 45 hours per week
Paid overtime for hours worked over 45 per week.
Generous staff discounts – 50% off food & up to 50% off accommodation at sister hotels, restaurants and bars
Career progression – Accredited compliance training, Hospitality specific online training platform
Learn while you earn – Apprenticeship training up to level 6
Staff meals for all staff whilst on duty
Staff Discounts at many of the Lakes local attractions
Regular division of gratuities
Pension scheme
Working in supportive teams of hospitality professionals
Yearly staff appreciation awards hosted by the Directors
Free staff Employee Assistance Programme
Outstanding employee of the quarter award
Refer a friend scheme to earn up to £500
Monthly staff prize draws
28+ days holidays increasing by one day every year after 5 years, up to 33 days
Annual salary reviews


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