Windermere Manor Hotel is seeking a skilled and passionate Head Chef to lead its kitchen team and deliver a great dining experience for hotel guests in a beautiful Lake District setting. This is an exciting opportunity for a chef with strong leadership qualities and a commitment to seasonal, locally sourced food. In return we offer a salary of £36,000 p.a. plus benefits.

ESSENTIAL EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 3–5 years’ experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a hotel environment
• Proven ability to manage kitchen operations and staff effectively
• Strong background in food safety and regulatory compliance

CORE SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Leadership and team management
• Menu development and culinary creativity
• Organisational and time management skills
• Clear and professional communication
• Attention to detail in presentation and quality control
• IT and administrative proficiency, including stock systems and rota software

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery (or equivalent)
• Level 3 Food Safety and Hygiene certificate
• First Aid at Work certification
• HACCP Level 3 or equivalent

ABOUT US

Windermere Manor Hotel is a family and pet-friendly hotel located in the Lake District, just a short walk from Lake Windermere and close to Windermere village and Bowness-on-Windermere. Set within three acres of landscaped gardens, the hotel offers a peaceful retreat with easy access to local attractions and walking routes. The on-site restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with seasonal specials and vegetarian/vegan options. Guests can also enjoy Afternoon Tea in the conservatory, Chapel or Drawing Rooms.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £36,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company events
• Company pension
• Discounted or free food
• Employee discount
• On-site parking
• Sick pay

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Windermere LA23 1EX: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Experience:

• Head or Senior Sous Chef: 3 years (required)

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (required)

Work Location: In perso

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

• Leading and managing a small to medium-sized kitchen brigade
• Designing and delivering seasonal à la carte menus
• Managing kitchen budgets, GP percentages and food cost controls
• Ensuring compliance with HACCP, allergen regulations and maintaining a 5-star food hygiene rating