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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate kitchen team to create exceptional seasonal dishes.
- Company: Charming country-house hotel with a two-rosette restaurant and stunning views.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, complimentary meals, discounted stays, and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Craft elegant, heartfelt food while inspiring a talented team in a beautiful setting.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef with strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Join a close-knit team and shape the future of a beloved Cotswolds manor.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Who we are
Perched above the Golden Valley near Stroud, Burleigh Court Cotswolds is a charming country-house hotel and two-rosette restaurant known for its panoramic views, seasonal menus, and warm, unhurried hospitality. We blend the comfort of a country escape with the craft of fine dining — creating an experience that feels both luxurious and heartfelt. Alongside our hotel and restaurant, we host intimate weddings, retreats, and corporate gatherings in a setting that inspires connection and calm. Our mission is simple: to delight guests through thoughtful detail, genuine warmth, and exceptional food rooted in the Cotswolds.
Role Description
We’re seeking a Head Chef to lead our culinary team with creativity, passion, and precision. This is a full-time, on-site role based at Burleigh Court near Stroud. As Head Chef, you’ll oversee all aspects of kitchen operations — from menu design and ingredient sourcing to daily service, standards, and team development. You’ll champion local produce, sustainability, and seasonality, crafting dishes that express a sense of place and uphold our highly-rated two-rosette reputation. The right candidate will not only manage the kitchen but inspire a culture of pride, learning, and calm excellence — where food is prepared with care, and guests feel the difference.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, mentor, and motivate the kitchen team to deliver consistently exceptional food and service.
- Curate seasonal menus that celebrate local ingredients and balance creativity with comfort.
- Ensure smooth daily operations, including prep schedules, stock control, and cost management.
- Work closely with the Front of House and Events teams to deliver seamless guest experiences across dining, weddings, and retreats.
- Uphold all food safety, hygiene, and compliance standards to the highest level.
- Support staff recruitment, training, and performance development.
- Manage supplier relationships and negotiate pricing to ensure sustainable profitability.
- Maintain a calm, collaborative environment — especially during peak service periods.
Qualifications & Experience
- Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high-end or rosette-level kitchen.
- Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to nurture emerging talent.
- Creative flair paired with sound technical skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent time management, organisational, and financial acumen.
- Formal culinary qualification or equivalent hands-on experience.
- Genuine passion for hospitality, seasonality, and local provenance.
Personal Qualities
- Calm under pressure and unflappable in service.
- Naturally collaborative — a mentor and team player.
- Brings warmth, pride, and professionalism to the role.
- A love of food that goes beyond technique — a storyteller through flavour and presentation.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Complimentary staff meals on duty.
- Discounted stays and dining across the hotel.
- Supportive ownership and a small, close-knit team culture.
If you’re a chef who finds joy in crafting food that feels both elegant and heartfelt — and you’d like to shape the next chapter of a beloved Cotswolds manor — we’d love to hear from you.
Location: Burleigh Court Cotswolds, near Stroud
Apply: management@burleighcourtcotswolds.co.uk
Head Chef in Stroud employer: Burleigh Court Hotel & Restaurant
Contact Detail:
Burleigh Court Hotel & Restaurant Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Stroud
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the restaurant's vibe! Before your interview, spend some time at Burleigh Court Cotswolds. Taste the food, soak in the atmosphere, and chat with the staff. This will help you tailor your approach and show that you're genuinely interested in their unique culinary experience.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your creativity! Prepare a few signature dishes that reflect your style and how you can elevate their seasonal menus. Bring along a portfolio of your past work or even a tasting sample if possible. This will demonstrate your passion and give them a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Connect with the team! During your interview, engage with everyone from the front of house to the kitchen staff. Show that you’re not just a leader but also a team player who values collaboration. This will highlight your ability to inspire and motivate others in a calm and supportive environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a friendly thank-you email expressing your excitement about the role. Mention something specific from your conversation to remind them of your connection. And remember, applying through our website is always a great way to stay in the loop for future opportunities!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef in Stroud
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When you're writing your application, let your love for food shine through! Share your culinary journey and what inspires you to create exceptional dishes. We want to see that spark of creativity and passion that makes you the perfect fit for our team.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect how your experience aligns with our mission at Burleigh Court. Highlight your leadership skills and any experience with seasonal menus or local produce. We’re looking for someone who truly understands our ethos!
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your writing. We value warmth and authenticity, so share a bit about yourself and your culinary philosophy. This helps us get to know you beyond just your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Burleigh Court Hotel & Restaurant
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with local produce and seasonal ingredients that are relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss how you would incorporate these into your menus, showcasing your creativity and understanding of the Cotswolds' culinary landscape.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to talk about your experience in leading a kitchen team. Share specific examples of how you've mentored staff, fostered collaboration, and maintained a calm environment during busy service periods. This will demonstrate your ability to inspire and manage a team effectively.
✨Emphasise Your Passion for Hospitality
Express your genuine love for food and hospitality. Share stories that highlight your journey in the culinary world and how you connect with guests through your dishes. This personal touch can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect to face practical questions or even a cooking demonstration. Brush up on your technical skills and be prepared to discuss your approach to menu design, cost management, and maintaining high standards of food safety and hygiene.
