At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create exceptional modern Scottish cuisine.
- Company: Join Cairn Group, where hospitality thrives through passionate people.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounted stays, career development, and health support.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive culture that values growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Shape culinary experiences and inspire a talented brigade in a vibrant hotel.
- Qualifications: Proven Head Chef or strong Senior Sous Chef experience required.
The predicted salary is between 28575 - 34925 £ per year.
Location: Hotel Indigo Edinburgh - Princes Street
Department: Kitchen
Join Cairn Group – Where People Drive Hospitality Forward, Together. At Cairn Group, we're passionate about creating memorable guest experiences, and it all starts with our people. We’re looking for an inspiring and people-focused Head Chef to lead the next phase of Twenty Princes Street’s culinary operation, with a particular focus on our developing modern Scottish cuisine.
Working closely with Cairn Group’s central Food and Beverage team, you will develop commercially strong menus, build a skilled and confident brigade, and ensure food safety, allergen management and operational standards remain at the heart of everything we deliver.
About the Role
As Head Chef, you will take ownership of the day-to-day kitchen operation while working closely with Cairn Group’s central Food and Beverage team to develop and deliver menus that reflect the brand identity and goals. The kitchen serves hotel breakfast (continental and à la carte), lunch, dinner, Sunday roast, bar dishes, group dining and events. The new Head Chef will shape how all of it looks, tastes and performs.
You will:
- Lead the kitchen operation across our Restaurant & Bar operation
- Continue to build on our strong food offering & identity
- Work closely with F&B team to develop the operation
- Collaborate with the F&B team on seasonal menus, event packages and new concepts
- Own kitchen standards, food safety, allergens, HACCP and audit readiness
- Build a structured training and development plan for every member of the brigade
- Develop future kitchen leaders and create clear succession within the team
- Control food cost, labour, purchasing, stock and waste
- Lead from the kitchen during key services and major events
- Create a culture of accountability, consistency and continuous improvement
Make Every Moment Matter
Every day is different, but every day you'll have the opportunity to make a positive impact. You will:
- Lead and inspire a team that delivers exceptional guest experiences
- Create a welcoming environment where guests feel valued
- Support the development and growth of team members
- Drive service standards and operational excellence
- Build positive relationships across the hotel
- Help shape a culture where people can perform, grow and succeed
Bring Your Personality. We'll Help You Build Your Career.
We're looking for people who:
- Have a proven Head Chef or strong Senior Sous Chef background within a hotel or quality restaurant operation
- Are confident managing food safety, allergens and kitchen compliance
- Can demonstrate strong food costing, gross profit and labour management
- Have successfully trained and developed a kitchen brigade
- Are comfortable working collaboratively within an agreed group food direction
- Lead by example and take ownership
- Build positive relationships across kitchen, food and beverage, sales and events
- Perform confidently in a busy and evolving hotel.
- Want to continue developing their leadership career
If you enjoy creating exceptional food experiences, building strong teams and helping shape a growing hotel operation, we'd love to hear from you.
Why Cairn Group?
Our People First culture combines ambitious standards with genuine support, creating an environment where individuals are trusted to perform, encouraged to grow and recognised for the contribution they make. We believe success is built through collaboration, accountability and a shared commitment to excellence, giving our people the foundation to build long-term careers with purpose.
What you'll enjoy as part of the team
At Cairn Group, we recognise that our people are at the heart of our success. That's why we offer a range of benefits designed to support your wellbeing, reward your contribution and help you build a rewarding career with us. As part of the Cairn team, you'll enjoy:
- Discounted stays across our hotels and venues
- Food, beverage, spa and leisure discounts
- Access to retail, entertainment and lifestyle discounts
- Leadership and career development programmes
- Long service awards recognising your commitment and contribution
- Refer a friend scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme offering confidential support whenever you need it
- Health Care Cash Plan
- Meals on duty
- Wellbeing resources and support
- Opportunities to develop and progress across our diverse hospitality portfolio
We're committed to creating an environment where people feel supported, valued and empowered to grow. Whether you're starting your career or taking the next step in leadership, Cairn Group offers the opportunity to build a career with purpose, alongside a team that's stronger together.
About Hotel Indigo Edinburgh - Princes Street
Hotel Indigo Edinburgh – Princes Street is a boutique hotel set within an impressive Georgian townhouse on Edinburgh’s famous Princes Street, just moments from Edinburgh Waverley Station. Inspired by the city’s rich literary heritage and overlooking Edinburgh Castle, the hotel is also home to award-winning Twenty Princes Street Restaurant and Juniper Bar, combining a landmark city-centre location with distinctive dining and hospitality.
Join us and help create exceptional experiences every day.
Head Chef in Edinburgh employer: Hotel Indigo Edinburgh Princes Street
Cairn Group is an exceptional employer for those looking to advance their careers in hospitality, offering a vibrant and supportive work culture where every team member's contributions are valued. With a strong focus on employee growth through various training programmes and recognition initiatives, you will thrive in an environment that encourages creativity and excellence. Located in the UK, Cairn Group provides unique benefits such as real-time pay access, discounted stays, and wellness offers, making it a rewarding place to build a fulfilling career.
Contact Details:
Hotel Indigo Edinburgh Princes Street Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Edinburgh
✨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 Hotel Indigo Edinburgh Princes Street. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Hotel Indigo Edinburgh Princes Street
Don't be shy about reaching out to Hotel Indigo Edinburgh Princes Street 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 in Edinburgh
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 Hotel Indigo Edinburgh Princes Street 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 Hotel Indigo Edinburgh Princes Street
✨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!
