Head Chef – Boutique Country House Hotel & Rosette Restaurant
Location: Low Fell / Gateshead Area
Package: £45,000 Base + Service/Tips (Realistic OTE £48,000 - £50,000)
Benefits: Private Healthcare (after 12 months), Brand New Kitchen, Autonomy over Menu.
The Opportunity
We are representing a stunning, independently owned Victorian boutique hotel set within two acres of private gardens. Following a recent change in management and a significant investment in a completely new kitchen facility, they are seeking a culinary leader to take the reins and define their next chapter.
This is a rare "blank canvas" role. The owners are looking for a Head Chef who wants to move away from corporate restrictions and lead a kitchen with total creative freedom. Whether you want to maintain their current reputation for high-end fresh food or push for further accolades (AA Rosettes), you will have 100% backing from the top.
The Volume & Environment
* Restaurant: 50–60 covers, focusing on imaginative, seasonal, and locally sourced modern British cuisine.
* Weddings & Events: A premier local venue catering for intimate seated receptions of up to 55 and evening celebrations for 110+.
* The Team: You will lead a dedicated brigade (typically 4–6 chefs) plus KPs, with full control over recruitment and training as you build your own culture.
* The Kitchen: Recently launched and fully equipped with modern tech—no "making do" with old kit.
Shift Pattern & Work-Life Balance
* Hours: Typical for a high-end hotel operation (approx. 45–48 hours).
* Patterns: A mix of straights and splits. Management is vocal about "no unnecessary extras"—the focus is on quality output and efficient stock/staff management rather than grinding hours for the sake of it.
* Loyalty Rewarded: This isn't a "churn and burn" kitchen. The owner is specifically looking for a long-term partner and offers Private Healthcare and enhanced benefits once you’ve settled in (1-year milestone).
What You’ll Need
* A background in Fresh Food/Rosette standard kitchens at Head Chef or high-level Sous Chef level.
* Strong commercial acumen—you’ll be responsible for stock taking, ordering, and GP management.
* A passion for mentorship; the owner wants a leader who can develop the existing junior staff.
* The desire to be the "face" of the kitchen in a prestigious, independent setting.
Why Apply?
If you are tired of being told what to cook and are looking for a stable, well-funded environment where "there are no limits" to what you can achieve, this is it.
To discuss this role in confidence, please apply with your CV today.