Role Description

We are currently seeking an inspiring, forward-thinking Head Chef to join our dynamic kitchen brigade in this thriving family run business.

This is an exciting challenge and an opportunity to bring your passion, creativity and energy to this unique independent events, wedding, restaurant and golf venue, set in a 1000 acre estate in the heart of Yorkshire.

Working alongside our team of 12 chefs you will lead and motivate our kitchen team to consistently deliver the highest possible standards to our guests.

As the ideal candidate you will have the opportunity to showcase your skills to:

• Deliver high quality food standards using fresh local produce
• Support, mentor and develop the kitchen team to drive the business forward
• Manage, train and motivate your team
• Promote excellent health, hygiene and food safety standards throughout the catering operations

Responsibilities to include:

Kitchen Management & Operations 

• Oversee all daily kitchen activities, from prep to plating.
• Maintain full control over food preparation processes and whilst maintaining high standards.
• Ensure strict compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations (e.g., HACCP).
• Manage inventory, place orders, and liaise with suppliers.
• Control food costs, minimize waste, and maximize profit margins.
• Develop and implement efficient kitchen production schedules.

Staff Leadership & Development

• Recruit, train, mentor, and manage kitchen staff (trainee chef’s, sous chefs).
• Create staff rotas, delegate tasks, and monitor performance.
• Foster a positive, cooperative, and respectful work environment.

Culinary Creation & Quality

• Design and develop new menus, recipes, and daily specials featuring local, Yorkshire produce.
• Inspect and refine dishes before serving to ensure quality and a high level of presentation.
• Stay current with culinary trends and techniques.

Financial & Administrative

• Calculate food costs, set menu prices, and manage budgets.
• Maintain accurate records for payroll, attendance, and inventory.

Skills to Include:

• Leadership : ability to motivate your team, resolve conflicts, and provide clear direction.
• Collaboration: work with all departments to ensure the restaurant, food offering, events and new menus launches are communicated and delivered to the highest standard.
• Culinary Expertise: strong skills required in menu design, recipe innovation, quality control.
• Financial Acumen: competence in budgeting, cost control, inventory management.
• Operational Efficiency: effective problem-solving, time management and organisation.
• Compliance: thorough understanding of food hygiene and health & safety standards.

Requirements:

• Current driving licence
• Minimum of 5 years kitchen experience preferably in a similar role

What we offer:

• Salary £42,000 – £45,000 per annum dependant on experience + bonus
• Staff incentives and the opportunity to progress within this expanding business.
• Company pension scheme
• Discounted Hotel and lodge stays (after qualifying period)
• Discounted food and drink
• Staff social events
• Uniform provided
• Accommodation available.

About us:

Sandburn Hall is a family run, independent leisure business that opened in 2005. We are located at Flaxton, just off the A64, approx. 8 miles from York & nestled in a picturesque landscape of over 1,000 acres of serene lakes and enchanting woodland.

Currently incorporating a 40-bed hotel, 18-hole golf course, Sports Bar, Tykes restaurant & 3 Event spaces / function rooms.

Tykes restaurant (120 covers) has recently been refurbished to a high standard, along with our main kitchen.  Tykes also boasts our new interactive chef’s table concept bar from which we deliver small bespoke tasting menus, wine pairings and seasonal events.

This is a great opportunity to join a forward thinking, family owned and independent company that has its roots firmly planted in Yorkshire; one that delivers exceptional customer service across all areas of the business.

To apply:

Please email CV to david@sandburnhall.co.uk