At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a talented kitchen team and create exceptional dishes with locally sourced ingredients.
- Company: Iconic luxury country house hotel known for its culinary excellence and beautiful setting.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, service charge, temporary live-in accommodation, and excellent perks.
- Other info: Join a people-first culture that values teamwork and personal growth.
- Why this job: Inspire and mentor a passionate team while showcasing your culinary creativity.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as a Head Chef with strong leadership and mentoring skills.
The predicted salary is between 29120 - 30000 £ per year.
A rare opportunity has arisen for an exceptional Head Chef to lead the kitchen of one of Hampshire's most iconic luxury country house hotels. Set in the heart of the New Forest, this beautiful and highly regarded property is celebrated for its 2AA Rosette-standard restaurant, elegant afternoon teas, and luxury weddings and events all built around a true field-to-fork philosophy, showcasing the very best of locally sourced seasonal produce.
We are looking for a calm, people-focused and inspiring leader someone who builds high-performing teams through coaching, trust and development, not pressure or shouting. This is a people-first business where culture matters just as much as culinary excellence.
You’ll be a hands-on, passionate and creative Head Chef who thrives on mentoring others, bringing out the best in your brigade, and creating an environment where chefs can grow, flourish and succeed. You’ll lead from the front, setting the standard for quality, consistency and innovation, while nurturing a positive and ambitious kitchen culture.
This is the ideal role for a chef who gets genuine satisfaction from developing talent, creating exceptional dishes, and leading with professionalism and patience.
Head Chef-Pub Kitchen in Lymington employer: Hesketh James Recruitment
Join a prestigious luxury country house hotel in the stunning New Forest, where culinary excellence meets a people-first culture. As Head Chef, you'll enjoy a competitive salary, generous service charge, and temporary live-in accommodation, all while leading a passionate team dedicated to showcasing the best of local produce. With a focus on employee growth and a supportive work environment, this is an exceptional opportunity for chefs looking to make a meaningful impact in a celebrated establishment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef-Pub Kitchen in Lymington
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Hesketh James Recruitment. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Hesketh James Recruitment
Don't be shy about reaching out to Hesketh James Recruitment directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef-Pub Kitchen in Lymington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Hesketh James Recruitment and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hesketh James Recruitment
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
