Company Overview
The Spread Eagle Hotel is a charming 35-bedroom establishment located in the heart of Thame. Our hotel features an inviting restaurant and bar, along with a spacious function room, all dedicated to providing exceptional hospitality and memorable experiences for our guests.
We are looking for an experienced and enthusiastic Head Chef to lead our kitchen in the heart of Thame.
This is a fantastic opportunity to take ownership of a hotel kitchen while working alongside a small, friendly and supportive team. We’re looking for someone who enjoys being hands-on, takes pride in serving consistently excellent food and can create a positive working environment where everyone plays their part.
The role
As Head Chef, you will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the kitchen, from menu development and food quality to stock control and team leadership. Because we are a close-knit team, you’ll be actively involved in service and comfortable working collaboratively across the hotel.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Leading, motivating and supporting the kitchen team
- Creating appealing, seasonal menus
- Maintaining consistently high standards of food and presentation
- Managing food costs, stock, ordering and reducing waste
- Planning rotas and ensuring the kitchen runs smoothly
- Maintaining excellent food hygiene, health and safety standards
- Working closely with the hotel’s management and front-of-house team
- Helping to recruit, train and develop kitchen colleagues
About you
We’re looking for someone who:
- Has experience as a Head Chef, Kitchen Manager or experienced Sous Chef ready to step up
- Is a confident, organised and supportive leader
- Enjoys working as part of a small, friendly team
- Remains calm and practical during busy services
- Has strong knowledge of food hygiene and kitchen safety
- Understands stock management, portion control and food costs
- Is creative, reliable and genuinely passionate about good food
- Takes pride in developing both menus and people
What we offer
- A key role in a characterful hotel in the centre of Thame
- The opportunity to shape menus and make the kitchen your own
- A welcoming, close-knit working environment
- Support from a friendly hotel team
- Competitive pay based on experience
- Staff benefits and opportunities for development
If you’re a talented chef looking for a role where your ideas will be valued and you can become an important part of a small, friendly team, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply today through Indeed with your CV and a short note telling us why you would be a great fit for The Spread Eagle Hotel.
Pay: £40,000.00-£45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- On-site parking
Experience:
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person