Head Chef
Job Vacancy at The Birnam Hotel
About The Birnam Hotel
Recently restored and reopening in 2026, The Birnam Hotel is being shaped by a small local team with a clear, thoughtful vision for what it can be. Rooted in its place and community, the hotel has been carefully brought back to life with respect for its history and a belief in delivering soulful Scottish hospitality.
At The Birnam Hotel, we believe good work comes from people who care about what they do. In a setting defined by attention to detail and purpose, we value creativity, pride in craft, and a genuine commitment to quality, whether front of house, behind the scenes, or somewhere in between.
We are a close-knit team that believes great hospitality grows from trust, support, and shared standards. If you are looking for a workplace that encourages individuality, offers room to grow, and values people as much as the experience they create, you will feel at home here.
Overview of the Role
The Head Chef at The Birnam Hotel is the creative and operational leader of our hotel food offering in Rohallion restaurant, our lounge bar, and in-house events. With purpose, passion, and a deep respect for Scotland’s culinary heritage, the role shapes a modern expression of soulful Scottish folk food—seasonal, grounded, and quietly elegant—drawing inspiration from the land, our own vegetable garden, and the shared pleasure of the table. From defining the culinary vision and creating menus to building and mentoring a skilled kitchen team, the Head Chef takes ownership of every aspect of the operation, from opening-day design and recruitment through to daily service excellence. Working closely with the senior management team and the Walled Garden, the role balances creativity with commercial rigour, delivering exceptional food, strong GP performance, and a kitchen culture rooted in care, craft, and collaboration.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and oversee all restaurant and bar service operations ensuring each guest experience is seamless, welcoming and thoughtfully delivered
Maintain a visible presence across service periods, setting the tone for attentive personable hospitality
Respond to guest feedback with care and professionalism, using insight to continually refine and master the dining experience
Work closely with the Head Grower to develop menus, pricing and service styles that reflect The Birnam Hotels seasonal and locally sourced food offerings.
Oversee the day to day F&B operations, ensuring smooth service flow
Uphold high standards of service, presentation, and cleanliness across all dining and service areas
Ensure full compliance with food safety, hygiene, licensing and health and safety regulations
Lead by example in maintaining consistency, attention to detail, and pride in presentation
Liaise closely with the Event Co-ordinator, and wider teams to deliver flawless event experiences
Oversee event planning and execution from the clients initial enquiry through to delivery
Prepare and review weekly and monthly F&B performance reports
Reporting key insights to the General Manager, and wider leadership team to support informed decision making
Maintain accurate records for stock, labour and compliance ensuring reporting are reliable and up to date.
About You
Skills & Competencies
Confident, calm leader with a positive, hands-on approach.
Strong organisational and communication skills.
Creative and seasonal in your cooking, with a respect for Scottish produce and heritage.
Commercially aware, with experience managing GP, stock, and waste.
High standards of food safety, cleanliness, and kitchen discipline.
Collaborative and solutions-focused.
Qualifications & Experience
Experience as a Head Chef in a fresh-food kitchen.
Strong background in seasonal, ingredient-led cooking.
Experience leading and developing kitchen teams.
Knowledge of food safety and health & safety compliance.
Relevant culinary qualifications or equivalent experience.
What We Offer
A supportive, positive working environment with real opportunities to develop both personally and professionally.
The chance to be part of a newly restored hotel opening, shaped by a small, committed local team.
Staff rates at The Birnam Hotel and our sister venue, The Taybank.
Complimentary staff meal provided each shift, prepared by the kitchen team.
A focus on wellbeing, with access to employee support services.
Recognition for commitment and contribution, with opportunities to grow as the hotel develops.
Participation in a team that values collaboration, respect, and enjoyment of the work itself.
HOW TO APPLY
If you are interested in one of our roles, please kindly fill out the application below, including your CV and a short cover letter.