Head Chef

Focus Hotels Management Limited; Matlock Bath CP; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading hotel group located in Matlock Bath, within the scenic Peak District, is looking for an experienced Head Chef. In this role, you will oversee kitchen operations, ensuring the preparation and presentation of high-quality dishes while leading and training the kitchen team. You will also manage food costs and compliance with health regulations. This position offers competitive pay, ongoing support, staff meals, and discounted room rates for friends and family.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Ongoing training and development

28 days holiday including Bank Holidays

Stakeholder Pension entitlement

Discounted hotel room rates

Meals on duty

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a kitchen environment.
• Hands-on leadership style with the ability to motivate the team.
• Commitment to maintaining high food safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Manage the kitchen operation and team effectively.
• Prepare and present food to high standards.
• Plan and implement new menus based on seasonal trends.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

Skills

Leadership skills

Problem-solving capabilities

Strong communication skills

Commitment to guest service

Ability to use IT systems

Job description

Who are we

New Bath Hotel & Spa is a beautiful 54‑bedroom hotel located in the heart of Matlock Bath, within the scenic Peak District National Park. The hotel stands as a testament to the area’s rich history, with origins tracing back to 1745 when it began as a bathing establishment centred around a natural spring that still flows today. The hotel features a historic outdoor swimming pool known as the New Bath Hotel Lido. Established in 1934, this unique lido is supplied by mineral‑rich spring water from the nearby mountainside, ensuring a natural and chemical‑free swimming experience.

Role Responsibilities

As Head chef, you are responsible for the efficient and effective management of the kitchen operation and team. You’ll ensure the commercial success of the business, to work in the parameters of food and wage costs set. To plan and implement new menus and systems to insure the commercial success of the business. To prepare and present the food to a high standard at all times and to insure all the team follow the specifications set out and the food is consistent.

• To plan new menus and review regularly in line with seasonal demand and consumer trends.
• To motivate, train and grow the team in all areas ensuring Check‑In’s are managed frequently and you identify, provide and evaluate departmental learning and development.
• Ensure great communication and working relationship with the rest of the Hotel and Management Team.
• To ensure that staff receive a well‑balanced meal twice a day for lunch and dinner.
• To ensure all specs are followed and the food, team and kitchen are consistent.
• To ensure that all the team are correctly dressed including any necessary PPE.
• Ensure a smooth and effective running of the kitchen.
• Maintain all Environmental Health Officer records and ensure we are compliant at all times.
• Ensure COSHH and HACCAP guidelines are achieved and maintained.
• Regularly update and advise all front of house staff on the allergens.
• Monitor key departmental costs in line with budget (food and wage costs).
• To draft all rotas so that staffing levels are in line with budget and business levels.
• Assist in recruiting efforts including interviewing prospective candidates.
• Control the purchasing and maintain food cost and stock rotation.
• To support and action employee relations within the team and department.
• To abide by all Company and legal Food Safety Standards.
• To ensure that all team members have or receive the correct Food Hygiene training in line with their level of responsibility.

Key Requirements

• Proven experience in kitchen with strong problem‑solving capabilities
• Excellent leadership skills with a hands‑on approach and lead‑by‑example work style
• Commitment to exceptional guest service with a passion for the hospitality industry
• Ability to find creative solutions, offering advice and recommendations
• Personal integrity, with the ability to work in an environment that demands excellence, time and energy
• Experienced in using IT systems on various platforms
• Strong communication skills

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Excellent on‑going support, training and development
• 28 days holiday including Bank Holidays per annum
• Stakeholder Pension entitlement
• Discounted hotel room rates for you, your friends and family
• On‑going incentives and rewards
• Meals on duty