At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a busy kitchen, crafting Mediterranean-inspired dishes and inspiring your team.
- Company: Join a growing luxury hospitality brand in stunning Cornwall.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, meals on duty, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team culture and help build something special.
- Why this job: Shape unforgettable dining experiences and influence exciting new menus.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a busy kitchen.
Head Chef
Lead the Kitchen | Mediterranean Small Plates | Cornwall
Do you thrive in a busy kitchen where fresh ingredients, exceptional hospitality and beautifully crafted food come together?
We're looking for an experienced Head Chef to become the driving force behind the day-to-day operation of our kitchen in our stunning new 56-bedroom hotel. Our restaurant celebrates vibrant Mediterranean-inspired small plates, showcasing seasonal ingredients, bold flavours and relaxed dining at its very best.
This is an exciting opportunity for a talented chef who loves leading from the front, developing people and delivering consistently exceptional food. Working alongside our Executive Chef, Stephane Delourme you'll take ownership of daily service, inspire your team and help shape an unforgettable dining experience for every guest.
What you'll be doing
- Leading the kitchen during busy breakfast, lunch and dinner services.
- Inspiring, coaching and developing a talented brigade.
- Delivering consistently outstanding Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
- Maintaining exceptional food quality, presentation and consistency.
- Supporting seasonal menu development and new dish creation.
- Managing stock, food costs and minimising waste.
- Ensuring the highest standards of food safety and kitchen cleanliness.
- Working closely with our front-of-house team to create memorable guest experiences.
- Taking full responsibility for the kitchen in the Head Chef's absence.
We're looking for someone who
- Has previous experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a busy hotel kitchen.
- Is a confident and supportive leader who enjoys developing others.
- Has a passion for fresh, seasonal food and Mediterranean flavours.
- Thrives in a fast-paced, quality-led kitchen.
- Has excellent organisational and communication skills.
- Understands food cost control and kitchen profitability.
- Leads by example with energy, professionalism and positivity.
- Takes pride in producing exceptional food every single service.
Why join us?
This isn't just another Head Chef role.
You'll be joining a growing luxury hospitality business where quality, creativity and genuine hospitality sit at the heart of everything we do. You'll have the opportunity to influence menus, develop your team and play a key role in shaping the reputation of one of Cornwall's most exciting new dining destinations.
We believe great hospitality starts with great people, so we invest in creating an environment where talented chefs can grow, be recognised and enjoy coming to work.
We offer
Competitive salary.
- Career development and progression opportunities.
- Ongoing training and development.
- Meals on duty.
- Uniform provided.
- Employee discounts across the group.
- A supportive, collaborative team culture.
- The opportunity to help build something truly special.
If you're passionate about great food, love leading a team and want to be part of an ambitious new hospitality brand, we'd love to hear from you.
Head Chef - St Mawes in Truro employer: St Mawes Elysium
Elysium St Mawes offers a unique opportunity for the Head of Maintenance to be part of an exciting new hotel opening in one of Cornwall's most picturesque locations. With a focus on relaxed luxury and attention to detail, we foster a collaborative work culture where hands-on involvement is valued, and employee growth is encouraged through establishing best practices from the ground up. Join us to make a meaningful impact in creating exceptional guest experiences while enjoying the benefits of working in a supportive environment that prioritises both personal and professional development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - St Mawes in Truro
✨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 St Mawes Elysium. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to St Mawes Elysium
Don't be shy about reaching out to St Mawes Elysium 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 - St Mawes in Truro
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 St Mawes Elysium 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 St Mawes Elysium
✨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!
