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- Tasks: Lead the kitchen, create menus, and manage events at a stunning country gastro pub.
- Company: An esteemed independent country inn in Hampshire, focused on quality and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and full creative control over your culinary vision.
- Why this job: Shape a unique dining experience in a beautiful setting with a commitment to local produce.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as a Head Chef in quality-led establishments and a passion for modern British cuisine.
- Other info: Opportunity for growth within a wider hospitality portfolio and a supportive ownership group.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
A highly respected, independently owned country inn set on a picturesque rural estate in Hampshire is seeking an experienced and visionary Head Chef to lead its kitchen operation.
This is a unique opportunity to take creative control of a well-established, high-quality dining venue with a loyal following and significant event trade.
About the Role:You will be responsible for the full culinary direction of the restaurant and events business. The role offers complete autonomy over all menus – from à la carte to estate-driven tasting menus and bespoke event offerings. You'll lead a dedicated and stable team, supported by an engaged ownership group committed to sustainability, quality, and innovation. The estate boasts exceptional local produce, including its own game, livestock, and kitchen garden, giving you unrivalled access to top-tier ingredients and a true field-to-fork ethos.
What We’re Looking For:- A proven Head Chef with a strong background in quality-led gastro pubs, country dining, or boutique hotels.
- A passion for provenance, sustainability, and working with estate and local produce.
- Strong leadership skills to manage and inspire a close-knit kitchen brigade.
- Experience with both à la carte service and high-end events (e.g., weddings, shooting parties).
- A flair for seasonal, modern British cuisine with a creative, confident approach.
- £60,000 base salary
- £8,000–£10,000 annual share of service charge
- Up to £10,000 performance bonus (KPI-linked)
- Full creative control over menus and kitchen operations
- A supportive and forward-thinking ownership with a long-term vision
- Potential for growth within a wider estate-based hospitality portfolio
This is a rare opportunity to shape the culinary identity of a destination venue in one of the UK's most beautiful rural settings, backed by an estate deeply invested in sustainability, hospitality, and innovation.
To apply or find out more, please send a CV and short cover note outlining your suitability. Strict confidentiality assured.
Head Chef employer: Host Staffing
Contact Detail:
Host Staffing Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Network with other chefs and industry professionals in Hampshire. Attend local food events or culinary workshops to make connections that could lead to recommendations for the Head Chef position.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your culinary creativity by sharing your own seasonal menu ideas on social media or a personal blog. This can demonstrate your flair for modern British cuisine and your passion for using local produce.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the estate's commitment to sustainability and local sourcing. Be prepared to discuss how your values align with theirs during any informal chats or interviews, as this will show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider visiting the gastro pub to experience the atmosphere and menu firsthand. This will not only give you insights into their operations but also provide you with talking points when you apply through our website.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in quality-led gastro pubs, country dining, or boutique hotels. Emphasise your leadership skills and any relevant culinary achievements that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Note: Write a short cover note that outlines your suitability for the role. Focus on your passion for provenance and sustainability, as well as your creative approach to modern British cuisine. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead a kitchen team.
Showcase Your Culinary Vision: In your application, briefly describe your culinary vision and how you would utilise local produce and estate-driven ingredients. This will show your understanding of the role and your commitment to the ethos of the establishment.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover note for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in a Head Chef role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Host Staffing
✨Showcase Your Culinary Vision
As a Head Chef, it's crucial to demonstrate your unique culinary vision during the interview. Prepare to discuss your approach to menu creation, especially how you would incorporate local and seasonal ingredients into your dishes.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
Strong leadership skills are essential for this role. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed a kitchen team, inspired creativity, and maintained high standards in a fast-paced environment.
✨Discuss Sustainability Practices
Given the emphasis on sustainability in this role, come prepared to talk about your experience with sustainable cooking practices. Share specific examples of how you've sourced local produce or implemented eco-friendly initiatives in previous kitchens.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think about challenges you've faced in the kitchen, such as managing a busy service or dealing with unexpected ingredient shortages, and how you overcame them.
