Head Chef

Head Chef – Luxury Hotel in Keswick, Lake District

Salary: £50,000 – £55,000 + Bonus + Accommodation

Are you an experienced Head Chef looking to lead a talented kitchen team in one of the most picturesque locations in the UK? We’re recruiting on behalf of a luxury 4-star hotel in Keswick, Lake District, renowned for its fine-dining brasserie, weddings, banqueting, and relaxed bar dining. This is an exceptional opportunity to showcase your creativity and leadership in a high-end hospitality environment.

The Role – Head Chef

As Head Chef, you will take full ownership of the hotel’s food offering – from fine dining and brasserie menus to large-scale weddings and events. You’ll be responsible for:

• Leading, mentoring, and motivating a brigade of 10 chefs to deliver consistently high standards.
• Developing innovative menus that reflect seasonality and the hotel’s luxury positioning.
• Managing kitchen operations including P&L, GP, menu costing, stock control, wage budgets, and supplier relationships.
• Maintaining compliance with all food safety, allergens, COSHH, and health & safety standards.
• Ensuring an exceptional guest dining experience across multiple outlets – fine dining, casual bar meals, and banqueting.

What We’re Looking For

• At least 2 years’ experience as a Head Chef within a 4-star hotel, luxury resort, or award-winning restaurant.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire, train, and develop a team.
• Proven ability to manage kitchen budgets and drive profitability without compromising quality.
• Passion for pushing culinary boundaries and delivering creative, seasonal dishes.
• Flexible, hands-on approach suited to a busy luxury hospitality environment.

What’s on Offer

• £50,000 – £55,000 salary + annual performance bonus
• Live-in accommodation (meals, internet, and laundry included)
• 45-hour contract with paid overtime
• Career progression with accredited training and apprenticeships (up to Level 6)
• Staff discounts on food, drink, and accommodation
• Discounts at local attractions and leisure facilities
• Staff meals on duty, share of gratuities, and employee recognition awards
• 28+ days holiday (rising to 33 with service)
• Annual salary review and pension scheme

Location – Keswick, Lake District

Situated in the heart of the Lake District National Park, this role offers a rare opportunity to live and work in one of the UK’s most stunning areas, surrounded by mountains, lakes, and thriving tourism.

Apply Today
Send your CV to Dave Hayes at Dave@perfect-recruitment.co.uk. Suitable candidates will be contacted for a confidential discussion.

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