Head Chef Job at The Newt in Somerset (Castle Cary)

Head Chef

The Newt in Somerset

Location:
United Kingdom , Castle Cary

Category:
Hospitality and Tourism

Contract Type:
Employment contract

Salary:

50000.00 GBP / Year

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Job Description:

The Head Chef plays a pivotal role in leading our 40-cover Farmyard Kitchen, one of the standout dining experiences at The Newt. Set within a beautifully restored dairy, this kitchen champions estate-grown, reared, and foraged produce, brought to life through seasonal menus and wood-fired cooking. You will take ownership of menu creation, lead and inspire a talented team, and collaborate closely with estate growers and producers. In this open kitchen environment, you’ll also connect directly with guests, delivering a dining experience that is both authentic and memorable. We are looking for an inspirational leader, someone who communicates well at all levels, who can bring energy, clarity, and direction to the team. With exciting plans to expand the restaurant in the near future, this is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious chef who is ready to grow with the business and help shape the next chapter of the restaurant’s success.

Job Responsibility:

Create innovative, seasonal menus using estate-grown and locally sourced produce
Collaborate with estate growers to ensure a consistent supply of fresh ingredients
Recruit, lead, and develop a high-performing kitchen team
Oversee kitchen operations to ensure efficiency and exceptional food quality
Manage food costs while maintaining outstanding guest experience
Support estate-wide events and exclusive-use bookings
Work closely with front of house teams to deliver seamless service
Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and hygiene standards

Requirements:

Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef within a luxury hotel or similar environment
Passion for seasonal cooking and working with estate-grown ingredients
Experience cooking with fire and wood-fired ovens
Strong leadership skills with experience managing large teams
An inspirational leader who communicates confidently at all levels
Excellent organisational and time management abilities
Commercial awareness and ability to manage food costs effectively
Adaptable, hands-on approach with a drive for excellence

Nice to have:

A driving license is recommended for this role

What we offer:

Employee Life Cover (2x salary)
Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 GP appointments)
Complimentary access to Spa and swimming pools
50% off Spa Treatments
Complimentary use of gym and wellbeing classes
Cycle to Work scheme
Complimentary staff meal
30% discount at estate shops and online with free delivery
Complimentary garden membership (The Newt, Eden Project, Kew Gardens, The Lost Gardens of Heligan)
Newt Awards colleague recognition programme
Discounted hotel stays
30% discount at restaurants
Fun Squad team engagement activities
Up to 30 days annual leave