Head Chef – Premium Rural Gastro Pub
Are you a talented and ambitious Head Chef looking to make your mark in a premium rural gastro pub?
We are seeking an experienced culinary professional to lead our kitchen team in a beautiful countryside location near Andover. This is a rare chance to showcase your culinary flair, work with the freshest local ingredients, and create unforgettable dining experiences for both loyal guests and those celebrating life’s biggest moments, including weddings and special events.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead, inspire, and manage the kitchen team to deliver outstanding food and service in a premium rural gastro pub setting
* Plan, develop, and cost seasonal menus, balancing classic pub favourites with innovative, modern dishes
* Oversee all aspects of food preparation, presentation, and service to the highest standards
* Take responsibility for in-house butchery, ensuring quality, portion control, and creative use of all cuts of meat, poultry, and fish
* Maintain rigorous food safety, hygiene, and health standards
* Manage kitchen budgets, control food costs, and work closely with local suppliers
* Recruit, train, and develop kitchen staff, fostering a positive and productive working environment
* Ensure efficient stock management, ordering, and waste control
* Collaborate with management to deliver a first-class experience for all guests, including bespoke menus and catering for functions, weddings, and special events
* Meet with clients to discuss menu options and tailor offerings for weddings, parties, and banquets
About You
* Proven experience as a Head Chef in a premium gastro pub or fresh food environment
* Advanced butchery skills and a passion for using seasonal, local ingredients
* Experience delivering high-quality catering for functions and weddings, with the ability to create and execute bespoke menus
* Can you inspire and elevate our team to deliver an experience that wins industry recognition?
* Strong leadership and team management skills
* Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
* Sound financial understanding and experience managing kitchen budgets
* Up-to-date knowledge of food safety and hygiene regulations
* Ability to thrive under pressure in a busy kitchen
* Must be available to attend in-person interview/menu presentation
Benefits
* Competitive salary and TRONC package
* Accommodation available upon request
* Sponsorship status: We can offer Skilled Worker visa sponsorship only to candidates who are already based in the UK
* Opportunity to shape and develop the menu, kitchen culture, and event offerings
* Supportive management and a passionate team
* Work in a respected premium rural gastro pub with a loyal customer base
* Enjoy the beauty and tranquility of a countryside location
If you’re ready to take the next step in your culinary career and lead a talented team in a thriving rural hospitality business, we want to hear from you!