Head Chef up to £42k plus bonus and Tronc. Live in available - Conningbrook Hotel

RedCat Pub Company; Ashford; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading hospitality company in Ashford seeks a dedicated Head Chef to lead its kitchen team at The Conningbrook Hotel. This role involves managing kitchen operations, ensuring food quality, and fostering a positive work environment. Ideal candidates will possess strong leadership skills and a passion for culinary excellence. The position offers opportunities for career development and may include live-in arrangements.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Quarterly bonus up to 15%

Employee discounts on food and accommodation

Career development programs

Qualifications

• Experienced Head Chef or strong Sous Chef.
• Confident in managing kitchen services and systems.
• High standards in culinary excellence.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the kitchen team for exceptional food experiences.
• Control kitchen profitability through effective management.
• Ensure compliance with hygiene and safety standards.

Skills

Leadership

Food quality assurance

Team management

Culinary creativity

Job description

Why work for us?

• Work/Life Balance?A genuine belief in work/life balance and an understanding of working together to promote flexibility
• Bonus? Up to 15% of salary able to be achieved on a quarterly basis
• Tips?A Tronc scheme with 100% of gratuities distributed to our teams every week via TipJar
• Financial Support? Access wages as you earn them through Wagestream,
• Development?Inspirational career development programmes
• Recognition?Dedicated reward and recognition platform
• Discounts?Food and Accommodation discounts nationwide
• Personal support?Employee assistance programme and wellbeing support

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...

The Conningbrook is a much loved Pub and Hotel, frequented by families, tourists and equally well used for business travel. With an enormous outside space, there are plenty of weekend events hosted by George and his team, as well as a brilliant carvery on offer to guests.

The position also offers live in, if required (available from mid-August 2025). The flat on site has two en-suite bedrooms, an office/third bedroom, living room and kitchen. So this role could be perfect for a relocation, as there is plenty of space to accommodate a family.

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 atrue leader. Someone who cares about food, and about the people cooking it.

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

Nestled in the village of Kennington, just outside Ashford, The Conningbrook Hotel is a fabulous hotel with 29 bedrooms, that seamlessly blends traditional charm with modern amenities. As part of our Neighbourhood syndicate, it offers guests a comfortable and friendly atmosphere, featuring well-appointed hotel rooms and convenient access to local attractions.

Food excellence is at the heart of The Conningbrook Hotel's offerings. The restaurant serves fabulous food, where guests can enjoy hearty British classics, including a traditional Sunday carvery, as well as a selection of lighter options and children's meals. The restaurant's garden and playground area provide a family-friendly dining experience.

The Conningbrook Hotel is well loved by locals and is a vibrant community hub, hosting regular events. For hospitality professionals seeking to join a dedicated team in a thriving environment, The Conningbrook Hotel offers an excellent opportunity to be part of a venue that values tradition, quality, and outstanding guest experiences.

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
• Ownership of 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