At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant kitchen, crafting Mediterranean-inspired menus and mentoring junior chefs.
- Company: The Headland Hotel, an iconic destination with stunning views and a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day work week, complimentary meals, spa discounts, and gym access.
- Other info: Join a team committed to sustainability and responsible hospitality.
- Why this job: Make your mark in a celebrated hotel with creative freedom and a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in kitchen management and a passion for Mediterranean cuisine.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
The Headland Hotel is one of Cornwall's most iconic destinations, perched dramatically above Fistral Beach with sweeping Atlantic views. At its heart sits the Aqua Club, and central to that is The Deck - a vibrant restaurant serving Mediterranean-inspired menus offering brunch and dinner. With both a preparation kitchen and a live open kitchen at the centre of the dining experience, The Deck is a genuinely exciting place to cook.
We're now looking for a talented and driven Head Chef to take ownership of this unique venue and lead it to its full potential. As Head Chef, you'll be responsible for the day-to-day running of both kitchens, leading your brigade with confidence and developing menus that reflect the sun-soaked, produce-driven spirit of the Mediterranean. Working closely with the Executive Chef, you'll bring creativity and discipline in equal measure, crafting dishes that are fresh and seasonal.
Our dinner menus focus on freshly made pizza, pasta dishes, and flatbreads, along with small plates and simple desserts. You'll have a strong understanding of food cost, ordering, and kitchen management, and you'll be as comfortable mentoring junior chefs as you are working the pass during a busy Saturday dinner service.
We're proud to offer a genuine work-life balance in an industry that doesn't always prioritise it. Our Head Chef will benefit from a 4-day working week, and we are often out the door by 21:30. You have a supportive senior team that values your wellbeing as much as your food. In return, we're looking for someone who shares our ambition - a chef who wants to make their mark at one of the North Coast's most celebrated hotels, in a role with real creative freedom and the backing and support to succeed.
This is a full-time permanent position based on a 48-hour working week including weekends and bank holidays. In line with UK Immigration and Employment Law, only applicants eligible to live and work in the UK need apply. Proof of ID will be required in the form of a Passport, National Identity Card or Birth Certificate.
As a member of our team you can enjoy the following benefits:
- Complimentary stay after 1 year's service
- 40% off spa products
- 25% off spa treatments
- Complimentary meals in each of our restaurants, once a year
- Gym access & weekly swim session
- Special rate for Pride of Britain Hotels
- Discounted surf lessons
- On site parking
- Complimentary meal provided (breakfast, lunch or dinner) when working over 6 hours
As well as regular awards and recognition:
- Monthly recognition awards
- Annual festive awards event
- Long service awards dinner
As a proud EarthCheck partner, we don't just talk about sustainability we live it, embedding world-class environmental management and eco-friendly practices into everything we do. Join a team where sustainability is in our DNA and we are actively shaping the future of responsible hospitality every single day.
Head Chef in Newquay employer: Kitchen - The Deck
The Headland Hotel is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises work-life balance with a 4-day working week and supportive senior management. As Head Chef, you'll enjoy creative freedom in a stunning coastal location, alongside benefits such as complimentary meals, spa discounts, and recognition awards, all while being part of a team committed to sustainability and responsible hospitality.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Newquay
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow chefs, restaurant owners, or anyone in the industry. Attend local food events or workshops to make connections that could lead to job opportunities. Remember, it’s not just about what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your culinary skills! Consider hosting a pop-up event or a tasting session to showcase your Mediterranean-inspired dishes. This not only gets your name out there but also gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their kitchen.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive and apply through our website! Don’t wait for job postings to come to you. If you see a venue that excites you, reach out directly. A well-timed email can make all the difference in landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by practising your menu ideas and kitchen management strategies. Be ready to discuss how you would lead a brigade and create seasonal dishes. Confidence and creativity are key, so let your passion for cooking shine through!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef in Newquay
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cooking:When you're writing your application, let your love for food and cooking shine through. Share your culinary journey and what inspires you about Mediterranean cuisine. We want to see that spark!
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head Chef role. Highlight your experience in kitchen management, menu development, and mentoring junior chefs. We’re looking for someone who fits our vibe!
Be Authentic:Don’t be afraid to show your personality in your application. We value creativity and individuality, so let us know what makes you unique as a chef. Authenticity goes a long way with us!
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kitchen - The Deck
✨Know Your Mediterranean Flavours
Familiarise yourself with Mediterranean cuisine, especially the dishes mentioned in the job description like pizza, pasta, and flatbreads. Be ready to discuss how you would incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients into your menus, showcasing your creativity and understanding of the culinary style.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head Chef, you'll be leading a brigade, so it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully mentored junior chefs or managed a busy kitchen environment. Highlight your approach to team dynamics and how you maintain morale during peak service times.
✨Understand Kitchen Management
Brush up on your knowledge of food cost, ordering, and overall kitchen management. Be prepared to discuss your strategies for maintaining efficiency and quality in the kitchen, as well as how you handle inventory and supplier relationships.
✨Emphasise Work-Life Balance
The Headland Hotel values work-life balance, so express your appreciation for this aspect of the role. Share how you believe a balanced approach can enhance creativity and productivity in the kitchen, and how you plan to foster a positive work environment for your team.
