Job Description
Head Chef – Burleigh Court Cotswolds
Who we are
Perched above the Golden Valley near Stroud, Burleigh Court Cotswolds is a charming country-house hotel and two-rosette restaurant known for its panoramic views, seasonal menus, and warm, unhurried hospitality.
We blend the comfort of a country escape with the craft of fine dining — creating an experience that feels both luxurious and heartfelt. Alongside our hotel and restaurant, we host intimate weddings, retreats, and corporate gatherings in a setting that inspires connection and calm.
Our mission is simple: to delight guests through thoughtful detail, genuine warmth, and exceptional food rooted in the Cotswolds.
Role Description
We’re seeking a Head Chef to lead our culinary team with creativity, passion, and precision.
This is a full-time, on-site role based at Burleigh Court near Stroud.
As Head Chef, you’ll oversee all aspects of kitchen operations — from menu design and ingredient sourcing to daily service, standards, and team development. You’ll champion local produce, sustainability, and seasonality, crafting dishes that express a sense of place and uphold our highly-rated two-rosette reputation.
The right candidate will not only manage the kitchen but inspire a culture of pride, learning, and calm excellence — where food is prepared with care, and guests feel the difference.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead, mentor, and motivate the kitchen team to deliver consistently exceptional food and service.
* Curate seasonal menus that celebrate local ingredients and balance creativity with comfort.
* Ensure smooth daily operations, including prep schedules, stock control, and cost management.
* Work closely with the Front of House and Events teams to deliver seamless guest experiences across dining, weddings, and retreats.
* Uphold all food safety, hygiene, and compliance standards to the highest level.
* Support staff recruitment, training, and performance development.
* Manage supplier relationships and negotiate pricing to ensure sustainable profitability.
* Maintain a calm, collaborative environment — especially during peak service periods.
Qualifications & Experience
* Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high-end or rosette-level kitchen.
* Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to nurture emerging talent.
* Creative flair paired with sound technical skills and attention to detail.
* Excellent time management, organisational, and financial acumen.
* Formal culinary qualification or equivalent hands-on experience.
* Genuine passion for hospitality, seasonality, and local provenance.
Personal Qualities
* Calm under pressure and unflappable in service.
* Naturally collaborative — a mentor and team player.
* Brings warmth, pride, and professionalism to the role.
* A love of food that goes beyond technique — a storyteller through flavour and presentation.
Compensation & Benefits
* Competitive salary based on experience
* Complimentary staff meals on duty
* Discounted stays and dining across the hotel
* Supportive ownership and a small, close-knit team culture
If you’re a chef who finds joy in crafting food that feels both elegant and heartfelt — and you’d like to shape the next chapter of a beloved Cotswolds manor — we’d love to hear from you.
📍 Location: Burleigh Court Cotswolds, near Stroud
📩 Apply: management@burleighcourtcotswolds.co.uk