At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a talented culinary team and create innovative menus at a luxury resort.
- Company: Join the iconic Old Course Hotel, a 5-star destination in St Andrews.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, wellness perks, discounts, and a competitive salary of £50,000.
- Other info: Access to wellness facilities and 24/7 support for your wellbeing.
- Why this job: Shape unforgettable dining experiences in a historic setting while developing your culinary leadership.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous/Head Chef in a luxury hotel and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 50000 £ per year.
About Us
At the heart of the world’s greatest golfing destination, the iconic Old Course Hotel is an AA 5 Red star, award-winning resort centred around active wellbeing and indulgent good times. Part of Kohler Company, the Old Course Hotel is a privately owned resort, priding ourselves on delivering personalised guest experiences to create lasting memories.
Why Join Our Team?
Become a key part of the Old Course Hotel’s culinary leadership team at the heart of our newly refurbished Restaurants located on the Hotel’s 4th Floor, overlooking the famous Old Course and West Sands. You’ll oversee two exceptional dining venues: the 3-rosette Road Hole Restaurant, known for its refined yet approachable cuisine that blends classic Scottish flavours with contemporary culinary techniques to offer guests a truly memorable meal; and the Swilcan Loft, our stylish chophouse and seafood restaurant where bold flavours and seasonal local ingredients take centre stage.
About the Role
As Head Chef reporting to the Executive Chef, you’ll lead a passionate and talented culinary team dedicated to excellence and innovation. You’ll craft menus that delight guests and cultivate a kitchen culture that delivers outstanding food and hospitality. This is your chance to shape unforgettable dining moments in a historic resort steeped in St Andrews’ rich heritage and world-class hospitality.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Lead, mentor, and supervise the Restaurant kitchen team, ensuring exceptional performance, development, and accountability.
- Design and deliver innovative menus, championing local seasonal produce and modern Scottish cuisine.
- Maintain uncompromising standards of food quality, presentation, safety, hygiene, and consistency.
- Manage ordering, stock control, and supplier relationships in line with cost‑control expectations.
- Oversee kitchen scheduling, training, and daily operational flow to exceed guest expectations.
- Collaborate closely with senior culinary leadership to support operational strategy and continuous improvement.
To be successful in this role you will have the following qualities and experience:
- Proven experience as a Sous/Head Chef within a luxury or high‑Rosette/5 Red Star Hotel environment.
- Exceptional leadership skills with a passion for coaching and developing a high‑performing team.
- Strong understanding of HACCP, food safety, and kitchen compliance standards.
- A creative, forward‑thinking approach to menu design and guest experience.
- Ability to remain calm, organised, and decisive in a fast‑paced, high performing environment.
What we can offer:
£50,000 per annum + tronc
Full Time permanent (40 hours per week)
Accommodation options available.
Why You’ll Love Working With Us:
Dine On Us – Enjoy free meals and refreshments every day in our complimentary staff canteen, including hot meals, salad bar, tea, coffee & soft drinks.
Exclusive Resort Perks – Treat yourself to generous discounts across the resort from award winning restaurants, luxury room stays and in our Pro Shop (St Andrews only PGA approved pro shop).
Kohler Group Benefits – Unlock even more savings with our wider discounts across the Kohler family.
Wellness, Your Way – Enjoy free access to our on-site Kohler Waters Fitness Centre, featuring a fully equipped gym, 20-metre pool, sauna and hot tub. Relax, recharge, repeat.
Plan Your Future – We’ll help you get access to the right information through complimentary mortgage consultations.
Cycle2Work – Stay active and save money with our Cycle2Work programme, good for you and the planet.
Perkbox – Enjoy exclusive discounts, rewards and monthly treats all in one easy app.
Get Rewarded - Earn fantastic rewards on our Global Recognition Platform and introduce great talent to our team through our generous Refer a Friend scheme.
24/7 Wellbeing Support – Our Employee Assistance Programme is available around the clock, offering confidential guidance whenever you need it.
If you are a visionary culinary leader ready to make your mark within one of Scotland’s most iconic 5‑star destinations, we’d love to hear from you. The Old Course Hotel is an equal opportunities employer. We aim to ensure that no job applicant, employee, or worker is discriminated against on the grounds of protected characteristics.
Head Chef – Luxury 5-Star Resort, St Andrews employer: Sterling Kohler
Join the prestigious Old Course Hotel, a luxury 5-star resort in St Andrews, where you will be part of a dynamic culinary leadership team dedicated to crafting unforgettable dining experiences. With exceptional benefits such as free meals, wellness access, and generous discounts, we foster a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and wellbeing, making it an ideal environment for passionate culinary professionals to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef – Luxury 5-Star Resort, St Andrews
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your culinary contacts and let them know you're on the lookout for a Head Chef role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on openings at luxury resorts like the Old Course Hotel.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you can, organise a tasting event or pop-up dinner to showcase your innovative menu ideas. This not only highlights your creativity but also gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their kitchen.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the resort! Familiarise yourself with the Old Course Hotel’s dining venues and their culinary style. Tailor your approach during interviews to show how your vision aligns with their commitment to exceptional guest experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at the Old Course Hotel, where we value passion and dedication.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef – Luxury 5-Star Resort, St Andrews
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Culinary Excellence:When writing your application, let your love for food and cooking shine through! Share your experiences that highlight your creativity and leadership in the kitchen. We want to see how you can bring your unique flair to our dining venues.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Highlight your experience in luxury or high-Rosette environments and any specific achievements that align with our values at the Old Course Hotel. This shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining our team!
Be Clear About Your Leadership Style:As a Head Chef, your leadership skills are crucial. In your application, describe how you mentor and develop your team. We’re looking for someone who can inspire others and create a positive kitchen culture, so don’t hold back on sharing your approach!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sterling Kohler
✨Know Your Culinary Vision
Before the interview, take some time to think about your culinary philosophy and how it aligns with the Old Course Hotel's focus on innovative Scottish cuisine. Be ready to discuss specific dishes or menu ideas that showcase local ingredients and your creative flair.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As a Head Chef, your leadership will be crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a kitchen team in the past, focusing on mentoring and developing talent. Highlight any experiences where you’ve fostered a positive kitchen culture or improved team performance.
✨Understand Food Safety Standards
Brush up on your knowledge of HACCP and food safety regulations. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure compliance in your kitchen. This shows that you take food quality and safety seriously, which is essential for a luxury establishment.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions to ask about the kitchen's current challenges, the team dynamics, or the restaurant's future direction. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if this is the right fit for you.
