Head Chef

Perched above the Golden Valley near Stroud, Burleigh Court Cotswolds is a charming country‑house hotel and two‑rosette restaurant known for its panoramic views, seasonal menus, and warm, unhurried hospitality.

We blend the comfort of a country escape with the craft of fine dining — creating an experience that feels both luxurious and heartfelt. Alongside our hotel and restaurant, we host intimate weddings, retreats, and corporate gatherings in a setting that inspires connection and calm.

Our mission is simple: to delight guests through thoughtful detail, genuine warmth, and exceptional food rooted in the Cotswolds.

Role Description

We’re seeking a Head Chef to lead our culinary team with creativity, passion, and precision.

This is a full‑time, on‑site role based at Burleigh Court near Stroud.

As Head Chef, you’ll oversee all aspects of kitchen operations — from menu design and ingredient sourcing to daily service, standards, and team development. You’ll champion local produce, sustainability, and seasonality, crafting dishes that express a sense of place and uphold our highly‑rated two‑rosette reputation.

The right candidate will not only manage the kitchen but inspire a culture of pride, learning, and calm excellence — where food is prepared with care, and guests feel the difference.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and motivate the kitchen team to deliver consistently exceptional food and service.
• Curate seasonal menus that celebrate local ingredients and balance creativity with comfort.
• Ensure smooth daily operations, including prep schedules, stock control, and cost management.
• Work closely with the Front of House and Events teams to deliver seamless guest experiences across dining, weddings, and retreats.
• Uphold all food safety, hygiene, and compliance standards to the highest level.
• Support staff recruitment, training, and performance development.
• Manage supplier relationships and negotiate pricing to ensure sustainable profitability.
• Maintain a calm, collaborative environment — especially during peak service periods.

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high‑end or rosette‑level kitchen.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to nurture emerging talent.
• Creative flair paired with sound technical skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management, organisational, and financial acumen.
• Formal culinary qualification or equivalent hands‑on experience.
• Genuine passion for hospitality, seasonality, and local provenance.

Personal Qualities

• Calm under pressure and unflappable in service.
• Naturally collaborative — a mentor and team player.
• Brings warmth, pride, and professionalism to the role.
• A love of food that goes beyond technique — a storyteller through flavour and presentation.
• Competitive salary based on experience
• Complimentary staff meals on duty
• Discounted stays and dining across the hotel
• Supportive ownership and a small, close‑knit team culture

Location

Burleigh Court Cotswolds, near Stroud

Seniority level

• Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

• Full‑time

Job function

• Management and Manufacturing

Industries

• Hospitality

If you’re a chef who finds joy in crafting food that feels both elegant and heartfelt — and you’d like to shape the next chapter of a beloved Cotswolds manor — we’d love to hear from you.

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