At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a talented kitchen team and create exceptional seasonal dishes.
- Company: Join the award-winning Coaching Inn Group at Forest Park Country Hotel.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, private healthcare, and generous discounts.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team in one of the UK's fastest-growing hotel groups.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a beautiful setting while developing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous Chef or Deputy Head Chef with a passion for quality ingredients.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Forest Park Country Hotel, Brockenhurst, Hampshire (SO42 7ZG)
Join an Award-Winning Hotel Group
The Coaching Inn Group, recently named Which? Hotel Group of the Year, is looking for a passionate and ambitious Deputy Head Chef to join the talented kitchen team at the beautiful Forest Park Country Hotel in the heart of the New Forest. This is an exciting opportunity to work alongside our Head Chef, helping to lead a dedicated brigade in delivering exceptional food using the very best seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
About Forest Park Country Hotel
Rooted in the rich history of Brockenhurst, Forest Park Country Hotel is one of the New Forest's most iconic country hotels. Offering elegant boutique accommodation, warm hospitality and a food philosophy centred around quality, provenance and seasonality, we create memorable experiences for every guest. Our menus celebrate the very best of Hampshire and the surrounding area, working with outstanding local suppliers including Hutchings Bros, Gillets, PJ Moore, Crow Farm, Jude's Ice Cream, Naked Jam, Noble Bee and Brook Hill Vineyard.
The Role
As Deputy Head Chef, you'll play a key role in the day‑to‑day leadership of the kitchen, supporting the Head Chef in maintaining exceptional food quality, kitchen standards and team development.
You’ll Be Responsible For
- Supporting the Head Chef in leading, motivating and developing the kitchen team.
- Delivering consistently high standards across breakfast, lunch, and dinner service.
- Championing fresh, seasonal British cuisine using high‑quality local produce.
- Maintaining excellent food hygiene, health & safety and kitchen compliance standards.
- Assisting with stock control, ordering, GP management and waste reduction.
- Helping develop exciting seasonal menus and daily specials.
- Leading the kitchen in the Head Chef's absence.
About You
We're looking for someone who:
- Has previous experience as a Sous Chef or Deputy Head Chef.
- Is passionate about fresh food and quality ingredients.
- Leads by example with a positive, hands‑on approach.
- Thrives in a busy, professional kitchen.
- Has excellent organisational and communication skills.
- Is committed to developing others and creating a positive kitchen culture.
Why Join The Coaching Inn Group?
We believe that great hospitality starts with looking after our people.
As Part Of Our Team You’ll Enjoy
- A genuine commitment to work‑life balance and flexible working.
- Weekly Tronc payments with 100% of gratuities distributed through TipJar.
- Private Healthcare, Life Insurance and an Annual Health & Wellbeing Grant.
- Six weeks' holiday.
- Up to 50% discount on food across all Coaching Inn Group hotels.
- 50% discount on accommodation.
- Annual £1 stay at one of our hotels.
- Award‑winning career development and progression opportunities.
- Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing support.
- The opportunity to work within one of the UK's most respected and fastest‑growing independent hotel groups.
Be Part of Something Special
At The Coaching Inn Group, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We believe in creating memorable guest experiences through outstanding hospitality, exceptional food and supportive teamwork.
If you're an ambitious chef looking to take the next step in your career in one of the New Forest's most beautiful hotels, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and help us create unforgettable dining experiences at Forest Park Country Hotel.
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Deputy Head Chef in Brockenhurst employer: The Coaching Inn Group
The Coaching Inn Group is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises work/life balance and personal development. As a Senior Sous Chef at Blakeney Manor Hotel, you will thrive in a supportive environment while crafting exquisite coastal British cuisine with locally sourced ingredients, all set against the stunning backdrop of Norfolk's coastline. Join us for a rewarding career where your culinary talents can flourish and grow.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head Chef in Brockenhurst
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like The Coaching Inn Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Coaching Inn Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Coaching Inn Group directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head Chef in Brockenhurst
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about The Coaching Inn Group and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Coaching Inn Group
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
