Head Chef, Windermere Manor

Windermere Manor Hotel is seeking a skilled and passionate Head Chef to lead its kitchen team and deliver a great dining experience for hotel guests in a beautiful Lake District setting. This is an exciting opportunity for a chef with strong leadership qualities and a commitment to seasonal, locally sourced food. In return we offer a salary of £36,000 p.a. plus benefits.

About the Role

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

  • Leading and managing a small to medium-sized kitchen brigade

  • Designing and delivering seasonal à la carte menus

  • Managing kitchen budgets, GP percentages and food cost controls

  • Ensuring compliance with HACCP, allergen regulations and maintaining a 5-star food hygiene rating

Essential Experience

  • Minimum 3–5 years’ experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a hotel environment

  • Proven ability to manage kitchen operations and staff effectively

  • Strong background in food safety and regulatory compliance

Core Skills and Competencies

  • Leadership and team management

  • Menu development and culinary creativity

  • Organisational and time management skills

  • Clear and professional communication

  • Attention to detail in presentation and quality control

  • IT and administrative proficiency, including stock systems and rota software

Desirable Qualifications

  • NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery (or equivalent)

  • Level 3 Food Safety and Hygiene certificate

  • First Aid at Work certification

  • HACCP Level 3 or equivalent

About Us

Windermere Manor Hotel is a family and pet-friendly hotel located in the Lake District, just a short walk from Lake Windermere and close to Windermere village and Bowness-on-Windermere. Set within three acres of landscaped gardens, the hotel offers a peaceful retreat with easy access to local attractions and walking routes. The on-site restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with seasonal specials and vegetarian/vegan options. Guests can also enjoy Afternoon Tea in the conservatory, Chapel or Drawing Rooms.

Please apply here. We’d love to hear from you.

KitchenIlka SalzmannWindermere