At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a talented culinary team and create innovative menus at a luxury hotel.
- Company: Join the iconic Old Course Hotel, a 5-star resort in St Andrews.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, free meals, wellness perks, and exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape unforgettable dining experiences in a historic and vibrant environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as a Sous/Head Chef in a luxury hotel setting.
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 - (req70278) employer: Sterling Kohler
Join the prestigious Old Course Hotel, an AA 5 Red star resort that offers a unique opportunity to lead a talented culinary team in a stunning location overlooking the iconic Old Course. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, we provide exceptional benefits including free meals, wellness access, and generous discounts across our luxury offerings, all while fostering a culture of innovation and excellence in hospitality. As part of the Kohler Company, you will have access to extensive growth opportunities and a supportive environment that values your contributions and development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - (req70278)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the culinary world. Attend food festivals, chef competitions, or local events where you can meet potential employers and fellow chefs. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Consider hosting a pop-up restaurant or a tasting event to showcase your culinary creations. This not only gives you a platform to demonstrate your talent but also helps you build a following and attract attention from potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate social media! Use platforms like Instagram to share your culinary journey, post photos of your dishes, and engage with other chefs. It’s a great way to get noticed and can lead to job opportunities in the industry.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for passionate culinary leaders like you. Make sure to check out our careers page regularly and submit your application directly to us for the best chance at landing that dream role as Head Chef.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef - (req70278)
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 and what drives you in the kitchen. We want to see that spark that makes you a great fit for our team.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Head Chef role. Mention specific achievements in high-end dining or innovative menu designs that showcase your culinary creativity.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your experience and qualifications. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and understand!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at the Old Course Hotel.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sterling Kohler
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with the types of dishes served at both the Road Hole Restaurant and the Swilcan Loft. Be ready to discuss how you would innovate their menus using local seasonal produce while maintaining the high standards expected in a 5 Red Star environment.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Head Chef, your leadership skills are crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led and developed a culinary team in the past. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you motivated your team to achieve excellence.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Food Safety
Understanding HACCP and food safety is non-negotiable. Be prepared to discuss your experience with kitchen compliance standards and how you ensure that your kitchen operates safely and efficiently. This will show that you take food quality and safety seriously.
✨Be Ready for a Practical Test
In many culinary interviews, you might be asked to demonstrate your cooking skills. Brush up on your techniques and be ready to showcase your creativity under pressure. Think about how you can impress them with a dish that reflects modern Scottish cuisine.
