Head Chef - FTC 3 Months - The Manor House Hotel

RedCat Pub Company; Dorchester; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading hospitality group in Dorchester seeks an experienced Head Chef to lead a passionate team in a historic setting. You will oversee kitchen operations, inspire culinary excellence, manage stock and P&L, and create memorable dining experiences. Ideal candidates are confident leaders focused on quality and local produce, ready to make a significant impact in the kitchen.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or strong Sous Chef.
• Ability to inspire and lead a kitchen team.
• Confidence in managing kitchen operations and service.

Responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen team to deliver memorable food experiences.
• Control kitchen P&L and manage stock.
• Recruit and develop a high-performing team.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Culinary excellence

Local produce knowledge

Job description

Overview

This is a FTC for 3 months.

This isn’t just another Head Chef job — this is your chance to take the reins of a kitchen that lives and breathes our Core Values

Driven by people, Inspired by Innovation and Crafted for Guests.

Here, we don’t just want a Head Chef to run the pass — we want a true leader. Someone who cares about food, and about the people cooking it.

If you want ownership, influence, and a role that respects your craft, you’re in the right place.

The Manor House, West Bexington is a beautifully preserved slice of Dorset's history, now operating as a welcoming country house hotel, restaurant and bar, also offering the perfect outdoor spaces for outdoor events and wedding venue. It offers a unique blend of heritage, charm, coastal scenery, local cuisine and being a great walkers spot located just off the SWCP on the Jurassic coastline!

The Manor dates back to the 16th century, and is a Grade II listed manor with views sweeping over Chesil beach. With 13 en-suite guest bedrooms, a flag-stone restaurant, exposed beam garden room, outdoor veranda with terrace views over Lyme Bay, with arguably some of the best outdoor dining spots in Dorset. The Manor also boasts a cosy cellar bar, serving real ales, log burners, doubling as a local village pub and a community hub for residents.

Enjoy locally sourced menu highlights, particularly seafood, and real ales in a charming setting, surrounded by manicured walled gardens, a south facing terrace, two acres of grounds capable of hosting up to 140-150 guests in a marquee. Perfect for weddings or events!

Located in the sought after hamlet of West Bexington, the hotel provides easy access to scenic walks and is a short drive located between Bridport and Weymouth. With its unique blend of charm, character and hidden gem location offers a place to create exceptional experiences in a truly extraordinary setting.

The job in a nutshell

• Lead and inspire the team to deliver consistent, memorable food experiences
• Control the kitchen P&L - from costing to stock management and labour
• Recruit, train and develop a high performing, happy kitchen team
• Ensure every plate meets exceptional standards for flavour, presentation and wow factor
• Own hygiene, compliance and safe working practices

What we are looking for:

• An experienced Head Chef or strong Sous Chef looking to make a difference
• A people-first leader who knows happy kitchens make the best food
• Confident in managing both service and systems
• Passionate about local produce, seasonal dishes, and a positive kitchen culture
• Someone who is calm under pressure, has high standards and a passion for culinary excellence

Ready to run a kitchen that runs on trust and talent? Apply now and lets talk about where your leadership could take you next

INDHP