Head Chef – Newton Stewart, Scotland
Salary: Circa £42k per annum with Accommodation | Annualised Hours
Salary: Circa £48k per annum without Accommodation | Annualised HoursAccommodation: Studio apartment on-site (utilities included)
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Are you an ambitious and passionate chef ready for a unique opportunity in a beautiful rural location? We are proud to represent our client, a luxurious and tranquil private estate located near Newton Stewart, in their search for a Private
This is more than just a chef position—this is a chance to become a core part of a visionary team building an exceptional hospitality experience from the ground up.
About the Estate
Nestled in the heart of the scenic Scottish countryside, our client's estate offers an elegant and serene retreat for guests, with opulent suites, charming cottages, and beautiful gardens. It's an environment where quality, calm, and creativity flourish.
With an on-site walled garden under development, a small-scale gin distillery in progress, and plans for a dynamic cooking school, this role offers the chance to shape a truly holistic and immersive culinary experience.
Key Chef Responsibilities
Welcome Basket & Arrival Meals
* Create a welcoming first impression with handcrafted treats: fresh bread, shortbread, scones, and local preserves
* Design a comforting and elegant arrival meal using seasonal, local produce
Daily Breakfast Services
* Serve fully catered guests with diverse breakfast options—from full Scottish fare to continental and healthy alternatives
* Ensure every plate is fresh, beautifully presented, and tailored to guest preferences
Casual Lunches & Picnics
* Prepare delicious and convenient lunches for dining on the estate or as luxury picnic hampers
* Offer gourmet sandwiches, seasonal salads, and light bites presented attractively and practically
Afternoon Tea (Future Offering)
* Develop a traditional yet elevated afternoon tea experience featuring pastries, finger sandwiches, and premium teas
Fine Dining Dinners
* Deliver stunning multi-course evening meals highlighting local ingredients and creative culinary flair
* Adapt dishes for dietary needs, ensuring personalisation and excellence
* Friday service only (currently)
* 4 cours tasting menu
Special Events & Pop-Up Experiences
* Provide bespoke catering for private events, themed dinners, and public gatherings
* Lead a seasonal pop-up restaurant with innovative tasting menus and potential guest chef collaborations
Cooking School Development
Be part of launching a new cooking school designed for all experience levels—from beginners to enthusiasts. You'll plan and deliver interactive, hands-on classes focusing on techniques, global cuisines, and seasonal ingredients.
Collaborate with the Walled Garden
Work closely with the estate's head gardener to develop a kitchen garden providing a rotating supply of fresh herbs, fruits, and vegetables—directly feeding into the main kitchen and the cooking school.
Gin Distillery – A Unique Opportunity
The on-site micro-distillery is under construction, offering the opportunity to get involved in gin recipe development and even receive training in the distilling process.
About You
* Previous experience as a Private Chef or Head Chef in luxury environments
* Strong passion for seasonal, sustainable cooking
* Menu creativity, plating finesse, and exceptional organisational skills
* Personable, professional, and excited to be part of an evolving vision
* A self-starter who thrives in a collaborative and forward-thinking environment
What's Included
* Competitive salary
* Private studio apartment on-site with all utilities included
* The chance to be part of a ground-breaking and high-quality culinary venture