Head Chef- Darlington. Adkins & Cheurfi Recruitment are proud to be partnering with a longstanding client in Darlington to recruit an experienced Head Chef for an exciting new restaurant opening in late Summer 2026.
The Opportunity Our client is a prestigious 5-star luxury resort featuring an award-winning hotel, spa, and golf course. They are launching a newly refurbished restaurant inspired by Italian-American cuisine, offering an all-day dining experience from breakfast through to evening service. This is a fantastic opportunity for a passionate and creative Head Chef to take ownership of a high-profile opening, leading a large and talented kitchen brigade within a premium hospitality environment.
Accommodation is available (details provided upon application).
Key Responsibilities Take full ownership of the kitchen function, ensuring smooth and efficient day-to-day operations
Create and evolve menus that reflect seasonal ingredients and the restaurant's Italian-American concept
Monitor kitchen performance, maintaining high standards during both prep and service periods
Mentor and develop the brigade, fostering a positive, disciplined, and collaborative culture
Manage supplier relationships, ordering processes, and stock levels to minimise waste
Ensure all food produced meets quality, consistency, and presentation expectations
Take responsibility for compliance with food safety regulations and internal standards
Control departmental costs, including food spend and staffing, to meet financial targets
Work in partnership with senior management and front-of-house teams to enhance the overall guest journey
Lead by example, driving standards, accountability, and innovation within the kitchen
About You Proven experience as a Head Chef within high-end or luxury environments (up to 3AA Rosette level)
Strong background in Italian-American cuisine and fine dining
Creative flair with a passion for presentation and detail
Strong leadership and team development skills
Solid understanding of kitchen operations, cost control, and compliance
Ability to perform under pressure while maintaining consistency
Flexible approach to working hours, including evenings, weekends, and events
What's on Offer Competitive salary up to £70,000
Accommodation available
Pension scheme
Staff discounts across the resort
The Legal Stuff:
Adkins & Cheurfi Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy. All candidates registering with Adkins & Cheurfi Recruitment must provide proof of identity, eligibility to work in the UK, and any relevant qualifications and references. Unfortunately, no sponsorship is available with this role
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