At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant kitchen, crafting Mediterranean-inspired menus and mentoring junior chefs.
- Company: The Headland Hotel, an iconic destination with stunning views and a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day work week, complimentary meals, spa discounts, and gym access.
- Other info: Join a team committed to sustainability and responsible hospitality.
- Why this job: Make your mark in a celebrated hotel with creative freedom and a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in kitchen management and a passion for Mediterranean cuisine.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
The Headland Hotel is one of Cornwall's most iconic destinations, perched dramatically above Fistral Beach with sweeping Atlantic views. At its heart sits the Aqua Club, and central to that is The Deck - a vibrant restaurant serving Mediterranean-inspired menus offering brunch and dinner. With both a preparation kitchen and a live open kitchen at the centre of the dining experience, The Deck is a genuinely exciting place to cook.
We're now looking for a talented and driven Head Chef to take ownership of this unique venue and lead it to its full potential. As Head Chef, you'll be responsible for the day-to-day running of both kitchens, leading your brigade with confidence and developing menus that reflect the sun-soaked, produce-driven spirit of the Mediterranean. Working closely with the Executive Chef, you'll bring creativity and discipline in equal measure, crafting dishes that are fresh and seasonal.
Our dinner menus focus on freshly made pizza, pasta dishes, and flatbreads, along with small plates and simple desserts. You'll have a strong understanding of food cost, ordering, and kitchen management, and you'll be as comfortable mentoring junior chefs as you are working the pass during a busy Saturday dinner service.
We're proud to offer a genuine work-life balance in an industry that doesn't always prioritise it. Our Head Chef will benefit from a 4-day working week, and we are often out the door by 21:30. You have a supportive senior team that values your wellbeing as much as your food. In return, we're looking for someone who shares our ambition - a chef who wants to make their mark at one of the North Coast's most celebrated hotels, in a role with real creative freedom and the backing and support to succeed.
This is a full-time permanent position based on a 48-hour working week including weekends and bank holidays. In line with UK Immigration and Employment Law, only applicants eligible to live and work in the UK need apply. Proof of ID will be required in the form of a Passport, National Identity Card or Birth Certificate.
As a member of our team you can enjoy the following benefits:
- Complimentary stay after 1 year's service
- 40% off spa products
- 25% off spa treatments
- Complimentary meals in each of our restaurants, once a year
- Gym access & weekly swim session
- Special rate for Pride of Britain Hotels
- Discounted surf lessons
- On site parking
- Complimentary meal provided (breakfast, lunch or dinner) when working over 6 hours
As well as regular awards and recognition:
- Monthly recognition awards
- Annual festive awards event
- Long service awards dinner
As a proud EarthCheck partner, we don't just talk about sustainability we live it, embedding world-class environmental management and eco-friendly practices into everything we do. Join a team where sustainability is in our DNA and we are actively shaping the future of responsible hospitality every single day.
Head Chef in Newquay employer: The Headland Hotel
The Headland Hotel is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for the Head Chef to thrive in a vibrant and supportive environment. With a focus on work-life balance, including a 4-day working week and a commitment to employee wellbeing, you will enjoy creative freedom while leading a talented team in one of Cornwall's most celebrated venues. Our dedication to sustainability and recognition of hard work through awards and benefits further enhance the rewarding experience of being part of our team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Newquay
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the venue! Before your interview, take a stroll around The Headland Hotel and soak in the atmosphere. Familiarise yourself with the menu and think about how you can bring your own Mediterranean flair to The Deck.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your creativity! Prepare a few dish ideas that reflect the sun-soaked spirit of the Mediterranean. This will not only impress during your interview but also demonstrate your passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on social media. They can give you insider tips about the kitchen culture and what it’s really like to work at The Deck.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team at The Headland Hotel.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef in Newquay
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 what excites you about Mediterranean cuisine. We want to see your personality and passion reflected in your words.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head Chef role at The Deck. Highlight relevant experience, especially in menu development and kitchen management. We’re looking for someone who can lead with creativity and discipline!
Be Clear About Your Leadership Style:In your application, describe how you lead a kitchen team. We value mentorship and collaboration, so share examples of how you've supported junior chefs and fostered a positive working environment. Show us you can inspire your brigade!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at The Deck!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Headland Hotel
✨Know Your Mediterranean Flavours
Familiarise yourself with Mediterranean cuisine, especially the dishes mentioned in the job description like pizza, pasta, and flatbreads. Be ready to discuss how you would incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients into your menus, showcasing your creativity and understanding of the culinary style.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head Chef, you'll be leading a brigade, so it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership style during the interview. Share examples of how you've mentored junior chefs or managed a busy kitchen environment, highlighting your ability to inspire and maintain discipline.
✨Discuss Kitchen Management Know-How
Be prepared to talk about your experience with food cost management, ordering, and overall kitchen operations. The interviewers will want to know how you ensure efficiency and quality in a high-pressure setting, so have specific examples ready.
✨Emphasise Work-Life Balance
The Headland Hotel values work-life balance, so express your appreciation for this aspect of the role. Discuss how you manage stress and maintain a positive work environment, aligning with their commitment to employee wellbeing and sustainability.
