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- Tasks: Lead a passionate kitchen team and create seasonal, ingredient-led menus.
- Company: Join the Signet Collection at The Alfriston, a stunning 14th-century hotel.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous tronc, and flexible scheduling.
- Other info: Access to training, career progression, and exciting culinary experiences.
- Why this job: Make your mark on a unique culinary journey in a historic setting.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership skills and a passion for creating exceptional food.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We are seeking an exceptional Head Chef to lead the culinary journey of The Alfriston, a remarkable 14th‑century property and the fourth hotel in the growing Signet Collection. This is a rare opportunity for a passionate, thoughtful and ambitious Head Chef to deliver our Signet group menus, building a culture and telling a story through food that reflects both the heritage of the building and the landscape that surrounds it.
The Alfriston is set within historic grounds overlooking the Sussex landscape, and has been lovingly restored to combine timeless character with modern luxury. Our food offering is central to how guests connect with the property — seasonal, ingredient‑led and rooted in a genuine sense of place. From herbs grown in our gardens to relationships with trusted local suppliers, we believe great food should feel honest, confident and unmistakably personal. As Head Chef, you will be entrusted with turning that philosophy into plates.
This role is about far more than delivering service. As Head Chef, you will be encouraged to bring your leadership style, while aligning with the Signet Collection ethos. You will be a visible leader on the pass, inspiring your team, collaborating with the wider hotel, and playing an active role in shaping the guest experience from breakfast through to celebrations and events.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading, inspiring and developing a high‑performing kitchen brigade
- Executing seasonal, commercially sound menus across all outlets
- Setting and maintaining exceptional food quality and consistency
- Owning food cost control, GP targets, ordering and stock management
- Recruiting, mentoring and retaining talent at all levels
- Establishing a calm, professional and respectful kitchen culture
- Ensuring full compliance with food safety, hygiene and health & safety legislation
- Managing rotas, holidays, payroll inputs and departmental budgets
- Working closely with Front of House and senior leadership to deliver seamless guest experiences
- Championing local, seasonal and sustainable produce
- Acting as a culinary ambassador for the hotel and the Signet Collection brand
What We Offer:
- Excellent salary package, plus generous tronc
- Personalised leadership training and clear progression pathways
- Discounted rates across Signet Collection hotels and restaurants
- Stream – access up to 40% of earnings before payday
- 28 days’ holiday + your birthday off (including Bank Holidays)
- Team recognition programme and long‑service awards
- Referral bonus scheme – earn up to £1,000
- Flexible scheduling
- Complimentary team meals on shift
- Supplier trips, masterclasses and culinary workshops
- Opportunities to move across the Group as you develop with us
- Access to apprenticeships and accredited qualifications up to Level 3
At Signet Collection, we believe luxury should feel warm, charming and unpretentious — and our kitchens should reflect that same ethos. We value leaders who cook with purpose, manage with integrity and understand that the best food is created by supported, inspired teams. If you are ready to lead a kitchen with heart, ambition and creativity — and to leave your mark on a very special opening — we would love to meet you.
Head Chef employer: The Alfriston Hotel
Contact Detail:
The Alfriston Hotel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with fellow chefs, suppliers, and industry folks. Attend culinary events or local food festivals to meet people who can help you land that Head Chef role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you can, organise a tasting event or pop-up dinner to showcase your culinary creations. This is a great way to demonstrate your passion and creativity directly to potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t be shy about reaching out! If you see a job you love, drop the hiring manager a message. A personal touch can make all the difference and show your genuine interest in the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love hearing from passionate chefs who want to join our team at The Alfriston!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When writing your application, let your love for cooking shine through! Share your culinary journey and how it aligns with our philosophy of seasonal, ingredient-led dishes that tell a story.
Be Authentic: We want to know the real you! Don’t be afraid to express your personality in your application. Tell us about your unique approach to leading a kitchen and how you inspire your team.
Highlight Your Leadership Style: As a Head Chef, your leadership is key. Make sure to detail your experience in managing a kitchen brigade and how you foster a positive, respectful culture that encourages creativity and collaboration.
Apply Through Our Website: Ready to take the plunge? We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to see your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Alfriston Hotel
✨Know Your Ingredients
As a Head Chef, it's crucial to have a deep understanding of seasonal and local ingredients. Research the suppliers in the area and be ready to discuss how you would incorporate their produce into your menus. This shows your commitment to the ethos of The Alfriston and your ability to create dishes that reflect the local landscape.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
During the interview, be prepared to share examples of how you've led a kitchen team in the past. Discuss your approach to mentoring and developing talent, as well as how you foster a positive kitchen culture. This will demonstrate that you align with the Signet Collection's values of integrity and support.
✨Bring Your Culinary Vision
Think about how you would tell a story through food at The Alfriston. Prepare a few ideas for seasonal menus that reflect the heritage of the building and the surrounding area. Presenting a clear culinary vision will show your passion and ambition for the role.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect to answer practical questions about food safety, hygiene, and cost control. Brush up on relevant legislation and be ready to discuss how you would manage food costs and maintain quality across all outlets. This will highlight your operational expertise and readiness to take on the responsibilities of the Head Chef position.