What we’re looking for: HEAD CHEF

The Bankes Arms in Corfe Castle has a fantastic opportunity for a Head Chef or Sous Chef at the top of their game and looking for their first Head Chef position, to come and join our team.

About Us:
The Bankes Arms is situated in the very heart of the historic village of Corfe Castle, Dorset. We are an independent, 16th Century Village, Grade II listed Pub & Restaurant with 7 Bedrooms set in the shadow of the historic castle itself with a large local following. Under new ownership, we are entering an exciting period of change.

Fresh ideas, great modern British food in a smart-casual environment. Refurbishment throughout. Become a part of the team that will make the Bankes Arms the place to relax, drink, eat & sleep.

About the role:

As Head Chef, you will be accountable for maximising profit from all food produced and served, achieving this by delivering exceptional dishes and menus crafted from seasonal ingredients, while maintaining strict control over costs. You will be responsible for creating outstanding menus and consistently producing high-quality dishes.

Your focus will be on improving customer satisfaction and encouraging repeat business by upholding consistently high standards in menu design, ingredient quality, cooking techniques, and presentation. A key objective will be to build a strong reputation for the bar & restaurant, while fostering a highly motivated team, ensuring their development, and meeting or exceeding annual food profit targets.

You will oversee all kitchen operations, leading the team in the preparation of delicious food that creates memorable dining experiences for guests. In addition, you will ensure the highest standards of kitchen maintenance, food safety, and inventory management, making sure the kitchen runs safely and efficiently.

About you:

• At least two years’ experience as Head Chef/Sous Chef leading a team in a high-volume site, preferably at a pub or a restaurant with a focus on British, local, seasonal food & ingredients.
• Be happy creating the perfect Scotch Egg for the Bar, Fish & Chips for the Garden as well as creative dishes & specials for the restaurant.
• Leadership skills to be able to inspire and drive a kitchen team by example with attention to detail and the ability to organise and manage workload effectively
• Experience working within margins and costings to run a profitable business but with a creative brain to come up with new dishes within budget.
• Experience of budget management with a good understanding of P&L’s and KPI’s along with an understanding of rota management, food, menu and labour cost control.
• Drive & self-motivated. Excellent knowledge of kitchen related legislative requirements/audits
• A solid understanding of all UK food hygiene, health and safety, fire safety and employment laws.

What We Offer:

• A supportive, positive workplace where your ideas are valued
• Opportunities for personal and professional development
• The chance to be part of a welcoming, dynamic team dedicated to creating memorable experiences for our guests
• Company pension
• Discounted food

If you’re enthusiastic and love hospitality and want to grow with a team that cares about great hospitality, we’d love to hear from you!

We are committed to sustainability and responsible business practices. At the Bankes Arms Hotel, we champion wellbeing, progression and a culture where people who share our values can thrive. As an equal opportunities employer, we welcome applications from all individuals with the right to work in the UK. If you require any adjustments during the application process, please let us know. Apply today and be part of a team that takes pride in delivering genuine hospitality.

Salary: Competitive plus Tips & Tronc. Accommodation is available in the short term.

Work Location: In person