Head Chef – Country Estate Gastro Pub | Hampshire | £78k+ Package
Location: Hampshire, UK (Live-out or nearby relocation recommended)
Salary: £60,000 base + £8-10k service charge + up to £10k KPI bonus
Schedule: 5 days over 7
Start Date: Negotiable
* A highly respected, independently owned country inn set on a picturesque rural estate in Hampshire is seeking an experienced and visionary Head Chef to lead its kitchen operation.
* This is a unique opportunity to take creative control of a well-established, high-quality dining venue with a loyal following and significant event trade.
About the Role:
* You will be responsible for the full culinary direction of the restaurant and events business.
* The role offers complete autonomy over all menus – from à la carte to estate-driven tasting menus and bespoke event offerings.
* You'll lead a dedicated and stable team, supported by an engaged ownership group committed to sustainability, quality, and innovation.
* The estate boasts exceptional local produce, including its own game, livestock, and kitchen garden, giving you unrivalled access to top-tier ingredients and a true field-to-fork ethos.
What We're Looking For:
* A proven Head Chef with a strong background in quality-led gastro pubs, country dining, or boutique hotels.
* A passion for provenance, sustainability, and working with estate and local produce.
* Strong leadership skills to manage and inspire a close-knit kitchen brigade.
* Experience with both à la carte service and high-end events (e.g., weddings, shooting parties).
* A flair for seasonal, modern British cuisine with a creative, confident approach.
What's on Offer:
* £60,000 base salary
* £8,000–£10,000 annual share of service charge
* Up to £10,000 performance bonus (KPI-linked)
* Full creative control over menus and kitchen operations
* A supportive and forward-thinking ownership with a long-term vision
* Potential for growth within a wider estate-based hospitality portfolio
This is a rare opportunity to shape the culinary identity of a destination venue in one of the UK's most beautiful rural settings, backed by an estate deeply invested in sustainability, hospitality, and innovation.
To apply or find out more, please send a CV and short cover note outlining your suitability. Strict confidentiality assured.
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