Head Chef

Head Chef

Location: Garvock House Hotel, Dunfermline
Department: Kitchen \& Food Operations
Reports To: Operations Manager \& Directors

About Garvock House Hotel

Garvock House Hotel is a prestigious independent hotel renowned for delivering exceptional dining experiences, weddings, events, and luxury hospitality. We are seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead our kitchen team, uphold high culinary standards, and create memorable dining experiences for our guests.

Role Overview

The Head Chef will be responsible for the overall management of the kitchen operation, ensuring the delivery of high-quality food across the hotel's restaurant, bar, weddings, conferences, and private events. The successful candidate will lead, inspire, and develop the kitchen team while maintaining excellent standards of food quality, hygiene, and cost control.

Key Responsibilities: Culinary Leadership

• Design and develop innovative seasonal menus that reflect guest expectations and current food trends.
• Ensure all dishes are prepared and presented to the highest standards.
• Oversee food preparation and service across all hotel outlets and events.
• Maintain consistency in quality, taste, and presentation.

Team Management

• Recruit, train, motivate, and manage kitchen staff.
• Create staff rotas to ensure efficient kitchen operations.
• Foster a positive and professional working environment.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and support staff development.

Financial Management

• Manage food costs, stock levels, and supplier relationships.
• Monitor kitchen budgets and achieve agreed GP targets.
• Minimise waste through effective stock control and menu planning.
• Oversee ordering and inventory management.

Food Safety \& Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with food safety legislation and HACCP procedures.
• Maintain exceptional levels of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the kitchen.
• Ensure all health and safety policies are followed.
• Manage allergen controls and food labelling requirements.

Operational Excellence

• Work closely with hotel management to support weddings, functions, and special events.
• Ensure smooth service during busy periods and high-profile events.
• Respond positively to guest feedback and continuously improve the dining experience.
• Support the hotel's reputation for quality and service excellence.

Skills \& ExperienceEssential

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a hotel, restaurant, or hospitality environment.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Experience managing kitchen budgets and food costs.
• Ability to work under pressure and maintain high standards.

Desirable

• Experience in wedding and event catering.
• Relevant culinary qualifications.
• Knowledge of contemporary Scottish and British cuisine.
• Experience within a luxury hotel environment.

Personal Attributes

• Passionate about food and hospitality.
• Creative and innovative approach to menu development.
• Strong organisational and communication skills.
• Professional, reliable, and solution-focused.
• Committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary.
• Staff meals while on duty.
• Company pension scheme.
• Opportunities for professional development.
• Supportive and friendly working environment.

Garvock House Hotel is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

Pay: From £40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Employee discount
• Free parking
• On-site parking

Work Location: In person