Head Chef Banqueting

Company: Fairmont
Apply for the Head Chef Banqueting
Location: Knutsford
Job Description:

Job Description

  • Reporting to the Executive Head Chef the Head Chef will lead all aspects of the Banqueting Kitchen, ensuring seamless delivery of high‑quality dishes for events of all sizes.
  • Design and develop seasonal, innovative menus in partnership with the Executive Chef, showcasing premium ingredients and modern techniques.
  • Inspire, mentor, and develop a skilled team of chefs, fostering a culture of excellence, creativity, and continuous improvement.
  • Collaborate with clients, event planners, and internal stakeholders to create bespoke culinary experiences tailored to each occasion.
  • Oversee stock management, procurement, and cost control to maximise profitability while maintaining exceptional standards.
  • Uphold strict compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health regulations at all times.
  • Stay current with culinary trends and integrate new ideas to elevate the Fairmont banqueting offering.
  • Coordinate daily kitchen operations including production schedules, plating standards, and quality control.
  • Work closely with Events, Sales, and Operations teams to ensure flawless event execution and guest satisfaction.
  • Conduct regular team briefings, performance reviews, and training programmes to support professional development.
  • Champion sustainability initiatives and support Fairmont’s commitment to responsible hospitality.
  • Maintain a proactive, solutions‑focused approach to ensure guest expectations are consistently exceeded.
  • Demonstrate flexibility and multi‑skilling as required to support the wider culinary and hotel operation.

Please note that we believe in flexibility and multi-skilling, and you may be asked to do different tasks from time to time to enable us to meet the needs of our guests and colleagues.

Qualifications

  • 5+ years’ experience in high‑volume banqueting or luxury hotel kitchens
  • Proven leadership at Senior Sous Chef or Head Chef level
  • NVQ Level 2/3 Professional Cookery (or equivalent)
  • Level 3 Food Safety (essential)
  • Strong knowledge of UK food safety, allergens, and HACCP
  • Demonstrated ability to manage costs, menus, and large‑scale production

Additional Information

What is in it for you?

  • Exclusive Discounts:
    • Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere, Spa and Golf discount
    • Fairmont, Raffles, and Accor Hotels (friends and family rates are included)
    • 20% off food and beverage in on-site restaurants
  • Colleague restaurant
  • Being part of The Mere Team – our culture is unique!
  • You will benefit from training and development opportunities
  • Competitive salary and benefits including pension
  • 28 days of holiday including public holidays
  • 1-5 days service award based on length of service
  • Special rates for Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere colleagues and their friends & family and discount across Accor hotels worldwide
  • And last but not least you will get to work with a team of EXTRAORDINARY people

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Posted: October 16th, 2026