Head Chef

Step into a leadership role where your creativity, passion, and expertise truly shape the guest experience.

Oatlands Park Hotel is looking for an exceptional and dynamic Head Chef to take the lead in our kitchen and inspire a high-performing culinary team.

ABOUT US: At Oatlands Park Hotel, we are on a mission to redefine excellence in the luxury hotel sector – one of Surrey’s most vibrant and competitive industries. Set in the beautiful surroundings of Weybridge (Surrey), our hotel is powered by talented, passionate professionals who take pride in delivering unforgettable experiences.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all hospitality. Every guest is unique – and so is every moment we create for them. As part of our team, you’ll embody our core values:

• Teamwork
• Integrity
• Mutual Respect
• Honesty
• Passion for Service
• Continual Improvement.

YOUR NEXT ROLE: Reporting directly to the General Manager, you won’t just run the kitchen – you will shape its culture, performance and creativity.

You will lead from the front, motivating your team to consistently meet high standards, exceed targets and continuously improve. Your leadership will directly influence the quality of our food, the efficiency of our operations and the satisfaction of our guests.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Managing food ordering, stock levels, and inventory control.
• Keeping food costs on track and aligned with business targets.
• Creating smart staff schedules to ensure smooth, efficient service.
• Ensuring full HACCP compliance and maintaining top hygiene standards.
• Leading recruitment, training, and development of kitchen staff.
• Designing fresh, seasonal menus that excite and delight guests.
• Personally handling guest feedback and enquiries when needed.
• Cross-training your team to build flexibility and resilience.
• Ensuring every dish meets presentation and quality standards.
• Supporting and guiding Sous Chefs and junior chefs.
• Delivering consistently high-quality food – on time, every time.

SKILLS & SPECIFICATIONS: You’re not just a chef – you’re a leader, strategist and motivator.

• You should have previous experience as Head Chef in a 4* Hotel.
• You are operationally strong and commercially experienced. You understand the business side of running a successful kitchen, from costing and GP management to health and safety compliance and stock control. Previous evidence of achieved targets and informed decision-making is highly desirable.
• Demonstrate good leadership skills.
• Fully understand how the role contributes to the success of the Food function.
• Maintain a good level of understanding of the restaurant and hospitality industry.
• Lead by example.
• Build effective and constructive relationships.
• Communicate and delegate clearly, professionally and concisely.
• Work collaboratively with others in pursuit of team goals.
• Able to work effectively under pressure, thrive in a challenging environment.
• Be able to demonstrate an understanding of the business vision and goals.

EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS:

• 5 GCSE grade A-C including maths and English, or equivalent.
• Qualified to a minimum of NVQ Level 2.
• Other relevant professional qualification (food & beverage related).
• Food hygiene and appropriate HS&E and First Aid accreditation/certification.

RIGHT TO WORK: You must have Right to Work in the United Kingdom, visa sponsorship is NOT offered for this vacancy.

BENEFITS: We believe great people deserve great rewards:

• Competitive Salary
• 28 days annual leave
• Staff accommodation available
• Pension scheme
• Free meals on duty
• Free parking
• Friends and family rates.

To apply, . We are actively reviewing applications and endeavour to respond to all applicants.

Thank you for your interest in working at Oatlands Park Hotel. We look forward to receiving your application.