We’re looking for an experienced Executive Head Chef to lead a high-volume, fresh food kitchen within a busy premium inn and hotel. This is a hands‑on leadership role for an established Head Chef or Executive Chef with a proven track record of leading large kitchen teams, delivering exceptional food quality and driving commercial performance.
The business operates a busy restaurant, 38‑bedroom hotel, breakfast service, events and seasonal menus. This is not a first‑time Head Chef opportunity. We’re looking for someone who thrives in volume while maintaining consistently high standards.
The role:
You will take full responsibility for all kitchen operations, leading a team of around 20 including 11 chefs and 9 kitchen assistants.
- Leading a high‑volume fresh food kitchen during busy service periods.
- Managing, coaching and developing the kitchen brigade.
- Creating seasonal menus using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Delivering consistent food quality across restaurant, breakfast and event operations.
- Managing GP, food cost, labour cost and kitchen budgets.
- Ordering, stock control, waste reduction and supplier management.
- Maintaining Food Safety, HACCP, allergen compliance and health & safety standards.
- Recruiting, training and succession planning for the kitchen team.
- Working closely with senior management to achieve financial and operational targets.
- Driving kitchen standards, efficiency and continuous improvement.
You’ll have:
- At least 3 years’ experience as a Head Chef or Executive Chef.
- Experience leading large kitchen teams within premium hospitality.
- Strong fresh food and from‑scratch cooking experience.
- Experience in high-volume restaurant, hotel or gastro pub environments.
- Strong financial understanding including GP, food cost, labour control and stock management.
- Excellent leadership, coaching and communication skills.
- Experience delivering Rosette‑standard food in a commercially focused operation.
- Level 3 Food Safety qualification or willingness to obtain it.
You’ll be a visible leader who enjoys being on the pass, developing chefs and maintaining standards during demanding services.
Executive Head Chef employer: Hospitality Staffing UK
Join a prestigious restaurant located on the edge of the stunning Peak District, where you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to delivering exceptional dining experiences. With competitive salary packages, generous holiday allowances, and a strong focus on employee wellbeing, this role offers not just a job, but a pathway for personal and professional growth in a supportive and vibrant work culture.