Head Chef in Chipping Norton

The Wychwood Inn is a beautiful, characterful pub and restaurant with rooms in the heart of the Cotswolds. We are passionate about great food, warm hospitality and creating a place that feels equally special for our local community, regular guests and visitors from further afield. Our kitchen celebrates the best of the British countryside, with a strong focus on seasonal ingredients, quality produce and dishes that are generous, thoughtful and full of flavour.

We are now looking for an ambitious and inspiring Head Chef to lead our kitchen team and take responsibility for the food operation across the pub, restaurant and guest accommodation.

The Role

As Head Chef, you will be at the heart of the business, responsible for the day-to-day running of the kitchen and for developing a food offering that reflects the character of the pub and the Cotswolds. This is a hands-on leadership role for a chef who enjoys being in the kitchen, leading from the front and taking pride in every plate that leaves the pass. You will have the creativity to develop menus and specials, balanced with the commercial understanding needed to run an efficient and profitable kitchen.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate and develop the kitchen team, creating a positive and professional working environment.
• Take full responsibility for the day-to-day operation of the kitchen.
• Create and develop seasonal menus across the pub and restaurant, making the most of excellent local and British produce.
• Develop dishes that are approachable, generous and exciting, while maintaining consistently high standards.
• Work closely with local suppliers and producers to source the best available ingredients.
• Manage food purchasing, stock levels, portion control and waste.
• Ensure excellent food quality, presentation and consistency at every service.
• Manage food costs and GP in line with agreed budgets and business targets.
• Maintain the highest standards of food hygiene, health & safety and kitchen cleanliness.
• Ensure all kitchen systems, records and procedures are maintained correctly.
• Plan and manage rotas, holidays and staffing requirements in line with business levels.
• Train and mentor chefs at all levels, helping to develop a strong and capable team.
• Work closely with the General Manager and front-of-house team to continually improve the guest experience.
• Contribute to private dining, events, weddings and other special occasions where required.
• Help shape the overall food identity and reputation of the pub.

The Food

We are looking for someone who understands that great pub food doesn't need to be complicated. Our approach is centred around excellent ingredients, seasonality, consistency and generosity, with menus that appeal to both our local regulars and destination diners. You should have a genuine interest in British produce and the ability to create food that feels appropriate to a beautiful Cotswolds pub but with a distinctive flair whether that is a perfectly cooked steak, a great pie, a creative seasonal starter or a memorable Sunday roast. We are open to a chef bringing their own ideas and personality to the menu, and we want someone who is excited by the opportunity to make their mark.

About You

You will ideally have:

• Previous experience as a Head Chef or strong Sous Chef ready to take the next step.
• Experience working in a quality pub, restaurant, hotel or similar environment.
• A genuine passion for food and hospitality.
• Strong leadership and team-management skills.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.
• A good understanding of food GP, stock control and kitchen costs.
• A strong knowledge of food safety and hygiene procedures.
• The ability to remain calm, organised and positive during busy services.
• A hands-on approach and willingness to work alongside the team.
• A passion for seasonal, locally sourced and well-executed food.
• The creativity and confidence to develop menus while understanding what works commercially.

Most importantly, we are looking for someone who cares about the food, the team, the suppliers, the guests and the reputation of the pub.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to take ownership of the kitchen and food offering.
• A beautiful Cotswolds setting.
• A supportive management team.
• A creative environment where your ideas and input will be valued.
• Staff meals on duty.
• Staff accommodation an option for the right candidate.
• Staff discount on food and drinks.
• The chance to build a kitchen and food reputation that you can be proud of.

Why Join Us?

This is an exciting opportunity for a chef who wants more than simply running a busy kitchen. You will have the opportunity to put your stamp on a well-loved Cotswolds pub, build a great team around you and create a food offering that becomes a genuine destination in its own right. If you are a passionate chef, a natural leader and someone who loves the combination of great food, great people and genuine hospitality, we'd love to hear from you.