Head Chef

Hospitality: Mill Farm Sports Village, Dixon Grange, Sedgewick Scott; Mere Brow; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A luxury hospitality venue in Mere Brow is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen team. The role focuses on innovative menu creation and team management, ensuring exceptional dining experiences. Ideal candidates will have strong leadership skills and thrive in a fast-paced environment. Competitive pay and career development opportunities are offered.

Benefits

Competitive pay

Career development opportunities

Supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Experienced at management level in hotel kitchen operations.
• Calm, flexible, and enthusiastic under pressure.
• Proven leadership skills with a passion for dining experiences.

Responsibilities

• Lead and motivate the kitchen team for outstanding food delivery.
• Create innovative, seasonal menus reflecting brand values.
• Ensure consistent quality and compliance with regulations.

Skills

Leadership skills

Creativity

Time management

Communication skills

IT-savvy

Job description

About The Villa

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Wrea Green, The Villa is a stunning 19th-century country house hotel that blends traditional charm with modern luxury. Renowned for its warm hospitality, fine dining, and exceptional service, The Villa is the perfect setting for weddings, events, and unforgettable stays.

Following its recent acquisition by local entrepreneur David Haythornthwaite, The Villa is entering an exciting new chapter with ambitious plans for growth and investment. This is your chance to join a dynamic team and play a key role in shaping the future of one of Lancashire’s most prestigious hospitality destinations.

The Role

We’re looking for an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead our kitchen team and deliver an exceptional culinary experience across our restaurant, bar, room service, and banqueting operations.

As Head Chef, you’ll take full ownership of kitchen management – from menu development and food quality to team leadership and cost control. You’ll inspire and develop a talented brigade, maintain impeccable standards of presentation and consistency, and bring creativity to every plate.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Leading and motivating the kitchen team to deliver outstanding food across all outlets.
• Creating innovative, seasonal menus that reflect The Villa’s brand and delight our guests.
• Ensuring consistent quality, presentation, and portion control in every dish.
• Managing day-to-day operations including ordering, stock control, and waste reduction.
• Driving cost efficiency and working within budget targets.
• Maintaining full compliance with food hygiene, health, and safety regulations.
• Recruiting, training, and developing kitchen staff to build a skilled and motivated team.
• Collaborating with management to deliver exceptional weddings, events, and functions.
• Sourcing quality ingredients and building strong supplier relationships.

About You

You’ll be an experienced chef with proven leadership skills and a passion for delivering exceptional dining experiences. You’ll thrive in a fast-paced environment, stay calm under pressure, and bring creativity and innovation to the table.

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Experienced at management level in hotel kitchen operations.
• Highly organised with excellent time management skills.
• A strong communicator and team leader.
• Calm, flexible, and enthusiastic.
• IT-savvy and confident with kitchen management systems.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of an exciting new era for The Villa with significant investment and growth plans.
• Work in a stunning setting with a passionate and supportive team.
• Enjoy competitive pay and benefits, plus opportunities for career development.