Head Chef - the Winterton Arms, Chiddingfold
The Winterton Arms has successfully completed its first year of trading and has quickly established itself as a destination country pub, known for quality food, exceptional hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere. As we continue to grow, we are looking for an ambitious and talented Head Chef to lead our kitchen team and help shape the next chapter of our journey.
This is an exciting opportunity for a chef who wants more than just a job. We are seeking someone with the passion, creativity, and leadership skills to drive standards, develop menus, mentor a growing team, and play a key role in the future success of the business.
About the Role
As Head Chef, you will be responsible for the overall management and performance of the kitchen. You will work closely with the owners and management team to deliver outstanding food, maintain excellent standards, and contribute innovative ideas that enhance our reputation as one of the area's leading dining destinations.
Our menus combine high-quality British pub classics with modern influences inspired by global flavours, seasonal ingredients, and a commitment to fresh, well-executed food.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and inspire the kitchen team to consistently deliver exceptional food quality and presentation.
- Oversee all day-to-day kitchen operations, ensuring smooth and efficient service.
- Create and develop seasonal menus, specials, and event menus that reflect the ethos of The Winterton Arms.
- Manage food costs, stock control, ordering, and supplier relationships to achieve GP targets.
- Maintain the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and kitchen cleanliness.
- Recruit, train, mentor, and develop kitchen staff, creating a positive and professional working environment.
- Ensure consistency across all dishes and service periods.
- Monitor kitchen performance and implement systems to improve efficiency and profitability.
- Work collaboratively with front-of-house management to deliver an outstanding guest experience.
- Support the business in achieving its long-term growth objectives.
What We Are Looking for
- Previous experience as a Head Chef or a highly capable Sous Chef ready to step into a leadership role.
- Strong background in fresh food kitchens with a passion for quality ingredients.
- Excellent leadership and people management skills.
- Proven ability to manage food costs, labour costs, and kitchen profitability.
- Strong understanding of food safety regulations and kitchen compliance.
- Calm and organised approach under pressure.
- Creative flair and enthusiasm for menu development.
- A genuine passion for hospitality and delivering memorable guest experiences.
- Ambition to grow with a business that continues to evolve and expand.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Performance-related bonus opportunities.
- Significant input into menu creation and business development.
- The opportunity to lead an established kitchen with a growing reputation.
- Career progression as the business continues to expand.
- Supportive ownership team that values innovation, creativity, and fresh ideas.
- Staff discounts and benefits.
If you're an ambitious Head Chef looking for the opportunity to make your mark in a thriving independent pub, we'd love to hear from you.
Job Type: Full-time
Location: The Winterton Arms, Chiddingfold, GU8 4UU
Experience Required: Minimum 3 years in a senior kitchen leadership role.
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: £45,000.00-£60,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Language:
Work Location: In person
