Chef & House Manager couple for luxury estate Yorkshire, cottage + top salary negotiable

Chef & House Manager couple for luxury estate Yorkshire, cottage + top salary negotiable

York Full-Time 50000 - 70000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Katherine Shields Private Staff

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Create unforgettable guest experiences and manage a luxury estate's hospitality operations.
  • Company: Prestigious private country house in beautiful Yorkshire.
  • Benefits: Top salary negotiable, private cottage accommodation, and a chance to shape a luxury destination.
  • Other info: Join a dynamic team and enjoy a hands-on role with excellent career prospects.
  • Why this job: Be part of an exciting opportunity to launch a leading UK hospitality destination.
  • Qualifications: Experience in hospitality management and culinary skills as a chef.

The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.

An exceptional opportunity to launch and operate a prestigious private country house destination in the heart of Yorkshire. A beautifully restored country estate is opening its doors for exclusive private hire for the first time in its history. Set within stunning riverside grounds and offering luxury accommodation, leisure facilities, and extensive entertaining spaces, the property is poised to become one of the UK's leading destinations for corporate retreats, family celebrations, and private gatherings.

We are seeking an experienced and entrepreneurial hospitality couple (Chef & House Manager) to take responsibility for the overall guest experience, operational management, and commercial success of the estate's hospitality offering.

The Opportunity

This is a hands-on role combining luxury hospitality, guest experience, property management, and business development. The successful couple will be instrumental in establishing the property's reputation from launch and creating a destination known for exceptional service, outstanding food, and memorable experiences.

Key Responsibilities

  • Hospitality & Guest Experience: Deliver exceptional guest experiences from initial enquiry through to departure. Maintain the property and grounds-facing hospitality areas to the highest presentation standards. Oversee housekeeping, service delivery, and day-to-day operations. Curate bespoke experiences and activities for guests in partnership with local providers. Ensure every stay reflects the highest standards of luxury hospitality.
  • Food & Beverage: One partner will act as Resident Chef, creating and delivering seasonal menus for private and corporate groups. Cater for a range of occasions, from relaxed family gatherings to formal dinners and events. Utilise estate-grown produce where possible and maintain consistently high culinary standards.
  • Commercial & Operational Management: Drive occupancy, bookings, and revenue throughout the year. Manage guest enquiries, reservations, and relationships with booking agents and corporate clients. Support marketing initiatives and reputation-building activities. Foster repeat business, referrals, and outstanding guest reviews.

The Ideal Couple

We are looking for a proven hospitality partnership with experience managing a large private estate, a country house hotel or boutique accommodation business. The successful candidates will demonstrate:

  • Strong hospitality and guest service expertise.
  • Commercial awareness and experience driving bookings and revenue.
  • Excellent leadership and organisational skills.
  • A warm, engaging, and professional approach to hosting.
  • An accomplished chef within the partnership, capable of catering for groups to a high standard.
  • Energy, initiative, and a genuine desire to build a successful hospitality business.

Team Structure

The couple will manage the on-site hospitality operation, including housekeeping and casual event staff, while working closely with the wider estate management team. Estate maintenance and grounds management are handled separately.

Accommodation and package

A private cottage on the estate is provided as part of the package, together with an excellent salary negotiable according to experience. Interviewing now to start in September.

Chef & House Manager couple for luxury estate Yorkshire, cottage + top salary negotiable employer: Katherine Shields Private Staff

Join a prestigious luxury country estate in Yorkshire, where you will have the unique opportunity to shape an exceptional guest experience in a stunning riverside setting. As part of a dedicated hospitality couple, you will enjoy a supportive work culture that values creativity and initiative, alongside competitive salary packages and a private cottage accommodation. This role not only offers the chance to showcase your culinary talents and hospitality expertise but also provides ample opportunities for professional growth as you establish the estate's reputation for outstanding service and memorable experiences.

Katherine Shields Private Staff

Contact Details:

Katherine Shields Private Staff Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Chef & House Manager couple for luxury estate Yorkshire, cottage + top salary negotiable

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 Katherine Shields Private Staff. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to Katherine Shields Private Staff

Don't be shy about reaching out to Katherine Shields Private Staff 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 Chef & House Manager couple for luxury estate Yorkshire, cottage + top salary negotiable

Hospitality Expertise
Guest Service Skills
Culinary Skills
Menu Creation
Operational Management
Commercial Awareness
Leadership Skills

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 Katherine Shields Private Staff 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 Katherine Shields Private Staff

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!