Head Chef – The Stag & Huntsman, Hambleden
We’re looking for an ambitious and talented Head Chef to take full ownership of the kitchen at The Stag & Huntsman, a beautiful, independently owned country pub in the heart of the Chiltern village of Hambleden.
This is a rare opportunity for a chef who wants real control. You’ll shape the menu, choose the suppliers, and cook the kind of seasonal British food that belongs in a proper country pub - with a strong focus on open-fire cooking, game dinners, and the best local and regenerative produce we can source.
About the Role
As Head Chef you’ll have complete creative and operational responsibility for the kitchen. You’ll design and evolve our menus, drive quality and consistency, lead a small dedicated team, and put your own stamp on the food we serve - from simple, beautifully cooked pub classics to more ambitious open-fire and game dishes.
Key Responsibilities
Take full ownership of the kitchen, menu direction, and food standards
Develop and evolve seasonal menus that champion local and regenerative British produce
Lead and inspire the kitchen team, setting high standards and developing talent
Champion open-fire cooking and create memorable game dinners and seasonal specials
Maintain excellent food safety, hygiene, and kitchen organisation
Manage stock, suppliers, food costs and waste with commercial discipline
Work collaboratively with the front-of-house team to deliver a seamless guest experience
What We’re Looking For
Proven experience as a Head Chef or strong Sous Chef ready to step up
Genuine passion for seasonal British cooking, open-fire techniques, and quality ingredients
The confidence and creativity to take full ownership of menu direction and supplier relationships
Strong leadership skills with the ability to train, motivate and hold a team to high standards
Solid commercial awareness around food costs, waste and kitchen efficiency
Calm under pressure, organised, and hands-on when it matters
Experience in a country pub, restaurant, or similar environment is advantageous, but attitude, taste and ambition matter most
What We Offer
Full creative control in an independently owned pub — your kitchen, your menu, your suppliers
The chance to cook over open fire and put game and seasonal produce at the heart of what we do
A beautiful working environment in one of the loveliest villages in the Chilterns
A supportive ownership team that backs quality and ambition
Competitive salary (depending on experience)
Staff meals and a great team to work with
If you’re a chef who wants the freedom to cook the food you believe in, in a proper country pub with real potential, we’d love to hear from you.
Pay: Up to £50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- On-site parking
Application question(s):
- Can you reliably commute to RG96RP? We are isolated in a countryside location.
Work Location: In person
