Head Chef

Our successful, independent holiday business occupies a stunning location at the foot of Ben Nevis in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. We take pride in the quality of the service we provide and promote a friendly and relaxed atmosphere for the benefit of our employees and guests.

We are at the early stages of an ambitious growth strategy, and developing our food offering will form an essential part of this.

We cater to a diverse range of customers and experience a strongly seasonal level of business. A big part of the challenge we face is scaling our offering efficiently to match the seasonal peaks and troughs of demand.

Although close to Fort William, we have a fantastic rural location in a Highland Glen, where we also own a small estate. It's our aim to manage our landholding using rewilding principles to promote biodiversity and carbon sequestration. Alongside this, there is potential to utilise our own supply of venison and other produce.

About the Job

You will be leading the turnaround and development of the food side of our holiday business. This currently includes a restaurant, bar and takeaway outlet. Over the next five years, we plan to invest in creating a stand-out year-round offering, and it's your job to help us deliver this.

Year One: Operational Focus
In year one, our focus will be on the operational side of the existing business with the aim of laying a solid foundation upon which we can grow. It'll be a turning point for our business, and team-building, recruitment and training will be an essential part of this.

Year Two: Development Focus
After successfully developing your team over the first year, your focus will switch to our plans for growth. Here, you will work closely with the General Manager and Company Directors to help us realise our vision to create a food destination. To achieve this, we will undertake a substantial investment program, and we expect you to perform an integral role in shaping this.

Year Three: Action
In year three, we will make the first of our big investments in our food business. After working with the directors on the concept, it'll be your job to make it happen operationally. You will be heavily involved in the kitchen design and set-up as well as menu development and costings.

· You are naturally passionate about food and your creativity is reflected on the plate.

· You are used to delivering quality food to big cover numbers (300+), consistently.

· You are passionate about delivering great food and exceptional guest experiences.

· You will be able to demonstrate creativity in menu development as well as delivering on KPI's.

· You have years of management experience to draw on.

· You're an experienced leader with a track record of forming and managing successful teams.

· You know when to be 'hands on' and get stuck in, as well be able do 'thinking' to drive the business forward.

· You're excited about working with us to develop a new food offering.

· Living and working rurally in the Highlands is a big draw for you.

· You've got entrepreneurial energy and can think creatively.,

• Chef: 5 years (required)
  
  · You'll be given the autonomy to find your own path to agreed goals.


· You'll have the full support of the General Manager and Directors, who have a range of experience to draw from and are always willing to help with any challenges you face.

· Our range of staff accommodation gives you the opportunity to recruit from far and wide.

· Our admin and maintenance teams will help you manage much of the day-to-day admin, maintenance and servicing requirements for the business.

We will put together an excellent remuneration package that suits the individual candidate. Accommodation can be provided if required., Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £45,000.00-£50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company events


• Company pension


• Discounted or free food


• Employee discount


• Free parking


• On-site parking


Schedule:

• Day shift


• Night shift


• Weekend availability


Supplemental pay types:

• Bonus scheme