At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a talented kitchen team and create exceptional British cuisine in a luxury hotel setting.
- Company: Renowned 5-star country house hotel in the beautiful New Forest.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, tronc, potential accommodation, and opportunities for career development.
- Other info: Dynamic kitchen with a strong focus on fresh, seasonal produce and high-volume service.
- Why this job: Join a prestigious hotel and make your mark with innovative culinary creations.
- Qualifications: Experience as Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a luxury environment is essential.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: New Forest, Hampshire
Salary: GBP 50,000–60,000 plus tronc
We are looking for a Head Chef for one of the UK’s most recognised luxury country house hotels. This role is a serious, high‑quality, high‑volume operation with a strong reputation, high occupancy, a loyal guest base and a varied food offering across dining, afternoon tea, events, terrace service, spa food and room service.
The role would suit an experienced Head Chef or a strong senior hotel chef who has already worked in a luxury environment. This position is not just about cooking good food. You will need to lead people, manage pace, support the brigade and keep standards high across a busy and varied operation.
The Operation
You will oversee the main restaurant (dining, breakfast, lunch, dinner), terrace and spa, as well as corporate events and weddings. Breakfast can be extremely busy, with cooked‑to‑order hot food alongside continental service. Dinner can range from around 75 to 140 covers, mostly from in‑house guests. Afternoon tea is also a key part of the operation. Weddings and corporate events are highly detailed and labour‑intensive, so strong organisation is essential.
The Food
The food style is British, seasonal and produce‑led. The offer must stay true to the location and guest expectations, but there is also room for a Head Chef to bring new ideas and move the food forward. You will work with fresh produce, daily specials and seasonal menu changes. Lunch menus may change daily or weekly, depending on the best available fish and produce. The kitchen is mainly scratch cooking, with selected quality items brought in from trusted suppliers where needed.
The Team
You will be part of a strong senior kitchen structure, working under an Executive Chef. The brigade is around 22 chefs, with a solid senior team already in place, including Sous Chefs, a Head Pastry Chef, Pastry Sous Chef, and Junior Sous Chef. The business has a strong track record of developing chefs, promoting from within and building loyalty in the kitchen. They need a Head Chef who can lead from the front, support the team and bring calm structure to a busy operation.
What We Are Looking For
- Experience as a Head Chef, Senior Sous Chef or Executive Sous Chef in a quality hotel or restaurant environment
- Strong luxury hotel, country house hotel, rosette or premium fresh food experience
- A hands‑on approach and the ability to work across all sections
- Strong knowledge of fish, larder, sauce and fresh British cooking
- Experience with high‑volume service, events, weddings or private dining
- Strong people skills and the ability to support, train and develop chefs
- Good kitchen admin skills, including ordering, stock control and systems
- A calm, organised and professional approach
- The confidence to take responsibility and solve day‑to‑day kitchen issues
Package and Accommodation
Competitive package available, with tronc on top (circa GBP 50,000–60,000 plus tronc). Off‑site accommodation may be available.
Head Chef : Luxury 5:Star Country House Hotel employer: TipTopJob
Join a prestigious luxury country house hotel in the stunning New Forest, Hampshire, where you will not only lead a talented kitchen brigade but also have the opportunity to innovate and elevate our seasonal British cuisine. With a strong commitment to employee development, a supportive work culture, and competitive compensation including tronc, this role offers a rewarding environment for passionate chefs looking to make their mark in a high-quality operation. Experience the beauty of the New Forest while working in a dynamic setting that values creativity and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef : Luxury 5:Star Country House Hotel
✨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 TipTopJob. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to TipTopJob
Don't be shy about reaching out to TipTopJob 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 Head Chef : Luxury 5:Star Country House Hotel
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 TipTopJob 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 TipTopJob
✨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!
