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Salary: £45,000 £55,000 | Live-in or Live-out Options Available
Were looking for an ambitious and energetic Head Chef to lead the kitchen of a gorgeous country pub in the Surrey Hills about to begin an exciting new chapter. This role does not require prior head chef experience, it is ideal for someone with the drive, vision, and leadership skills to shape a brand-new kitchen and make their mark.
Our vision is to become one of the best food pubs in Surrey, delivering seasonal, ingredient-led British foodthat is accessible, generous, and rooted in outstanding produce. This is not fine dining or super experimental gastronomy; it is about brilliant cooking, hospitality, and consistency at the highest level.
Why this role?Shape the menu and suppliers: youll have the opportunity to help build the menu and shape the food direction as well as help select and build relationships with outstanding producers.
Respect at the core: the kitchen is suitable for someone who wants to work in a calm,professional, and supportive environment. Collaboration and respect will be at the forefront .
Career-defining opportunity: this role is perfect for an ambitious chef ready to step up into this head chef role. Strong cooking ability, kitchen experience and technical skill are essential, but a specific number of years is not. What matters most is the right attitude, drive, and ambition to succeed.
Help build a new team: the opening kitchen team will begin with 2 chefs with support of KPs/commis, providing the chance to shape the culture from day one. A sous chef position is also available for those at the right level.
Pay and accommodation: £4555k salary (for live-out). The role has live-in options available. Accommodation options include a spacious three-bed apartment (family-friendly, but not required) or smaller self-contained units.
Couples welcome: front of house opportunities are also available, making this a fantastic move for a couple.
Location set in a picturesque village in the Surrey Hills countryside. Its also a short drive from several stations that reach central London in 30-50 minutes.
The role does not demand a set number of years experience or a particular background. What matters most is attitude, ambition, and passion for great food. Success will come naturally to someone who:
Is excited by the opportunity to build something from the ground up.
Cares deeply about ingredients, provenance, and seasonality.
Wants to lead in a respectful, calm, and professional kitchen.
Has the drive and energy to deliver consistently excellent food service.
This is a rare chance to put a personal stamp on a pub with serious ambition and an opportunity to shape one of Surreys best dining pubs from day one.
To apply please send a CV and short cover letter by clicking Apply.As part of the application, please also choose a month of the year and write a short outline (2 starters, 2 mains, 1 desserts) of dishes youd be excited to cook in our pub. A one-line description of each dish is enough: no full recipes required. Applications MUST be made via email.
