At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate kitchen team to create seasonal, local menus that tell a story through food.
- Company: Join the Signet Collection at The Alfriston, a stunning 14th-century hotel.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous tronc, and flexible scheduling with complimentary meals.
- Other info: Access to training, career progression, and unique culinary experiences.
- Why this job: Make your mark in a historic setting while inspiring a high-performing culinary team.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership skills 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: Lead Seasonal Local Menus at Sussex Hotel in Wilmington employer: The Signet Group
At Signet Collection, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a warm and inclusive work culture. As the Head Chef at The Alfriston, you will not only lead a talented kitchen team but also have access to personalised leadership training, generous benefits including a competitive salary and tronc, and opportunities for career progression within our growing collection of hotels. With a focus on local, seasonal produce and a commitment to creating memorable guest experiences, working here means being part of a culinary journey that celebrates both heritage and innovation in a stunning Sussex setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef: Lead Seasonal Local Menus at Sussex Hotel in Wilmington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with fellow chefs, suppliers, and industry folks. Attend local food events or culinary workshops to make those valuable connections that could lead to your next big opportunity.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Consider hosting a pop-up dinner or collaborating with local restaurants to showcase your seasonal menus. This not only gets your name out there but also gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out directly to places you admire, like The Alfriston, and express your passion for their culinary vision. A personal touch can make all the difference!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team at Signet Collection. Let’s make some culinary magic together!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef: Lead Seasonal Local Menus at Sussex Hotel in Wilmington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:When writing your application, let your love for cooking and food shine through. Share your culinary journey and how it aligns with our philosophy of seasonal, ingredient-led dishes that tell a story.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head Chef role at The Alfriston. Highlight your experience in leading kitchen teams, creating menus, and working with local suppliers to reflect our ethos.
Be Authentic:We want to get to know the real you! Don’t be afraid to share your personality and leadership style in your application. Show us how you inspire and develop your team while maintaining a calm kitchen culture.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. This way, we can easily track your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Signet Group
✨Know Your Ingredients
As a Head Chef, your passion for seasonal and local produce should shine through. Research the local suppliers and ingredients that are available in Sussex. Be ready to discuss how you would incorporate these into your menus and how they reflect the heritage of The Alfriston.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires a visible leader who inspires their team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a kitchen brigade in the past. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you motivated your team to overcome them.
✨Emphasise Culinary Storytelling
The Alfriston has a unique story, and your food should tell it. Be prepared to discuss how you would create menus that not only taste great but also narrate the history and culture of the area. Share any previous experiences where you’ve done this effectively.
✨Understand the Business Side
Being a Head Chef isn't just about cooking; it's also about managing costs and maintaining quality. Brush up on your knowledge of food cost control, GP targets, and stock management. Be ready to discuss how you would ensure profitability while delivering exceptional food quality.
