Head Chef

Head Chef Luxury Private Estate -Salary range39k-44k

We are The Edinburgh Catering Company, a creative and contemporary catering business based in Scotlands capital and operating across the UK and beyond.

From our two purpose-built units in Edinburghs South Gyletotalling over 10,000 sq ft and housing a state-of-the-art production kitchen and tasting roomour team of 30+ chefs, logistics professionals and hospitality experts deliver elevated food experiences with precision, passion and personality.

The Role

We are seeking an exceptional Head Chef to take creative and operational ownership of the day to day culinary offering at one of Scotlands most exclusive private estates. This is a rare opportunity to deliver high-end dining in an intimate and highly personalised environment, working with small groups of discerning guests from all over the world.

As the on-site culinary lead, you will design, prepare and deliver an all-day food offering that reflects the high standards of both The Edinburgh Catering Companys and the venue. You will work in partnership with the resident Front of House Manager to ensure every meal, snack and nibble is delicious and delivered seamlessly.

This is a dynamic, guest-led role that changes week by week based on party size, preferences, dietary requirements and event style.

Head Chef Key Responsibilities

• Curate and deliver a refined, contemporary all-day menu, ensuring every dish is prepared and presented to an exceptional standard. Initially this process will be in collaboration with the TECC kitchen team, however, it is our intention that you will have autonomy over your own menus going forward.
• You may be required to create bespoke menus tailored to guest preferences, dietary needs and the tone of their stay. This may be done in conjunction with the event planning team at TECC HQ.
• Maintain an unwavering focus on quality, consistency and creativity, showcasing the best of Scottish and seasonal produce.
• Ensure that all food leaving the kitchen meets our uncompromising standards

• Manage daily kitchen operations, including ordering, supplier relationships, stock control and kitchen organisation.
• Oversee mise en place, service readiness and the overall cleanliness and compliance of the kitchen.
• Maintain careful oversight of allergens, dietary requirements and safe food handling procedures.
• Plan efficiently for varying guest numbers: from intimate stays to full-house occupancy.
• Cultivate an excellent working relationship with both the overarching TECC kitchen and events teams

• Work closely with the Front of House Manager to deliver a coordinated, elegant and guest-focused service.
• Communicate clearly on timings, menu changes, guest requests and special occasions.
• Be confident interacting with guests when appropriate, discussing menus, ingredients, wine pairings or Scottish food heritage.
• Support the events and kitchen team with creation of memorable experiences such as private tastings, chefs tables or cookery demonstrations when required.

• Confidently tailor the offering between relaxed, homely food and refined multi-course dining.
• React to last-minute adjustments or special requests with calm professionalism.
• Embrace the unique nature of working within a luxury private-house environment, where no two weeks are the same.

Who We Need

• A talented and experienced chef with a varied background; spanning high-end restaurants, luxury hotels, private dining and/or exclusive-use venues.
• Someone who thrives in a small, self-sufficient kitchen environment and is comfortable managing all aspects of culinary operations.
• Strong understanding of seasonal produce, Scottish ingredients and elegant modern cooking
• Confident in menu planning and delivering consistent quality for groups ranging from 2 to 32 guests.

• Calm, organised and meticulously clean in approach.
• Creative and passionate, with a genuine love for premium food and excellent hospitality.
• Confident communicator who works seamlessly with the Front of House Manager.
• Able to maintain composure and warmth in a guest-facing, high-expectation environment.
• Flexible and adaptable, enjoying the variety and diversity of a private venue setting.
• A full driving licence is essential due to the venues rural location and operational demands.