At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen, design menus, and manage operations in a vibrant hotel setting.
- Company: The Castle Hotel, a newly refurbished gem in Portmahomack.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, live-in accommodation, monthly bonuses, and 28 days holiday.
- Why this job: Shape the future of our kitchen and showcase your culinary creativity.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or senior kitchen role required.
- Other info: Join us during an exciting refurbishment and relaunch phase.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Castle Hotel in Portmahomack is recruiting a Head Chef to lead its kitchen as the hotel enters a new chapter under new ownership. The hotel is currently undergoing refurbishment, with the Head Chef having the opportunity to contribute to the kitchen refit and shape menus going forward.
The role
- You will take full responsibility for kitchen operations.
- You will design and deliver menus that reflect your style while meeting customer expectations.
- You will manage ordering, stock control, and food costs.
- You will ensure all food hygiene, allergen, and environmental health standards are met.
- You will lead by example in a fast paced service environment.
- You will work closely with management as part of the hotel’s redevelopment and growth.
Working pattern
- This is a full time, permanent role.
- You will work five days out of seven.
- The hotel operates year round.
What we are looking for
- You will have previous experience as a Head Chef or in a senior kitchen role.
- You will thrive in a busy kitchen environment.
- You will be passionate about good food and hospitality.
- You will be highly organised and confident managing ordering and processes.
- You will maintain high standards of cleanliness and compliance at all times.
- All relevant qualifications must be up to date.
What is on offer
- Competitive salary depending on experience.
- Live in accommodation available for the right candidate.
- Freedom to create menus and influence the direction of the kitchen.
- Monthly bonus scheme.
- 28 days paid holiday.
- Workplace pension scheme.
- Employee of the month scheme.
- The opportunity to be part of a refurbishment and relaunch.
Location
Portmahomack is a coastal village around ten minutes from Tain, with local amenities and good transport links to Inverness.
How to apply
Apply through Highland Jobs. Your application goes directly to the employer. No agencies. No nonsense.
Head Chef employer: The Castle Hotel
Contact Detail:
The Castle Hotel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the hotel and its vibe! Before your interview, check out The Castle Hotel's website and social media. Understanding their style and what they’re aiming for with the refurbishment will help you tailor your ideas and show them you’re genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Bring your A-game to the interview! Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in detail, especially how you've led a kitchen before. Share specific examples of menus you've created and how you managed a busy kitchen – this is your chance to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to ask questions! Show your enthusiasm by asking about the kitchen refit and what kind of dishes they envision. This not only demonstrates your interest but also helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s straightforward and ensures your application goes directly to the employer. Plus, it shows you’re keen on the role and ready to jump into this exciting opportunity at The Castle Hotel.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Culinary Style: When you're crafting your application, let your personality shine through! Share your unique approach to cooking and how you plan to shape the menus at The Castle Hotel. We want to see your passion for good food and hospitality!
Highlight Your Experience: Make sure to detail your previous roles as a Head Chef or in senior kitchen positions. We’re looking for someone who thrives in a busy environment, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements and how you've managed kitchen operations in the past.
Be Organised and Precise: Since you'll be managing ordering, stock control, and food costs, it’s crucial to demonstrate your organisational skills. Include examples of how you've successfully handled these aspects in your previous roles to show us you can keep everything running smoothly.
Apply Directly Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through Highland Jobs. This way, your application goes straight to us without any middlemen. It’s quick, easy, and ensures we get to see your application in its best light!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Castle Hotel
✨Know Your Culinary Style
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your unique culinary style and how it aligns with the hotel's vision. Be ready to discuss your previous menu creations and how they catered to customer preferences. This will show your passion for good food and hospitality.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head Chef, you'll need to lead by example in a fast-paced environment. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed a kitchen team in the past, highlighting your ability to motivate staff and maintain high standards. This will demonstrate your readiness to take full responsibility for kitchen operations.
✨Understand Food Safety Standards
Brush up on food hygiene, allergen management, and environmental health standards before the interview. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure compliance in your kitchen. This knowledge is crucial for maintaining cleanliness and safety, which is a top priority for any establishment.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Cost Management
Since managing ordering, stock control, and food costs is part of the role, come equipped with examples of how you've effectively controlled costs in previous positions. This will show that you're not only creative but also highly organised and capable of running a profitable kitchen.