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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: Excellent salary, generous tronc, flexible scheduling, and 28 days holiday plus your birthday off.
- Other info: Enjoy supplier trips, culinary workshops, and clear progression pathways.
- Why this job: Make your mark on a historic property and inspire a high-performing kitchen brigade.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading kitchens and a passion for seasonal, sustainable cooking.
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 in Seaford employer: The Alfriston - Management
Contact Detail:
The Alfriston - Management Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Seaford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend culinary events, join local chef groups, or even hit up social media platforms to showcase your skills and passion. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your culinary flair! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, bring along a portfolio of your best dishes or even a tasting menu. Let them see and taste what you can do — it’s a surefire way to leave a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to restaurants or hotels you admire, like The Alfriston. Express your interest and share how you can contribute to their culinary vision. Sometimes, the best opportunities come from a simple conversation.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing passionate chefs who resonate with our ethos. Make sure to highlight your leadership style and how you can inspire a kitchen brigade. It’s all about showing us that you’re the perfect fit for our team at Signet Collection!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef in Seaford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When writing your application, let your love for food shine through! Share your culinary journey and how it aligns with our philosophy of seasonal, ingredient-led cooking. We want to see your personality and passion reflected in your words.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience as a Head Chef. Focus on your leadership style, menu creation, and any unique culinary stories that connect with the heritage of The Alfriston. We’re looking for someone who can bring our vision to life!
Be Authentic: We value honesty and authenticity, so don’t be afraid to share your personal approach to cooking and team management. Let us know how you create a positive kitchen culture and inspire your team. We want to get to know the real you!
Apply Through Our Website: Ready to take the plunge? Make sure 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 Alfriston!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Alfriston - Management
✨Know Your Ingredients
As a Head Chef, you’ll need to showcase your knowledge of seasonal and local produce. Research the suppliers in the area and be ready to discuss how you would incorporate their ingredients into your menus. This shows your commitment to the ethos of The Alfriston and your ability to create dishes that reflect the landscape.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to talk about your leadership approach and how you inspire your team. Think of specific examples where you've successfully led a kitchen brigade or mentored junior chefs. This is crucial as the role requires not just culinary skills but also the ability to foster a positive kitchen culture.
✨Align with the Hotel's Story
Understand the history and character of The Alfriston. Be ready to discuss how you would tell a story through food that resonates with the hotel's heritage. This could involve creating signature dishes that reflect the building’s past or the surrounding Sussex landscape.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about menu planning, food cost control, and maintaining quality standards. Prepare to discuss how you would manage these aspects while ensuring a seamless guest experience. Being able to articulate your strategies will demonstrate your readiness for the role.