Head Chef

A new luxury historic castle in the heart of the Irish Midlands is seeking a Head Chef of exceptional talent and vision to help define its culinary identity from day one. This is a rare chance to build something truly remarkable - a food concept rooted in the castle's heritage, its landscape, and Ireland's finest seasonal produce.

This is a hands-on, creative leadership role. You won't just run a kitchen - you will become the culinary voice of the property, engaging directly with guests, shaping menus across breakfast, afternoon tea and intimate dinner experiences, and building a food programme with ambitions for international recognition.

THE OPPORTUNITY

• Lead the culinary vision of a stunning, brand new Irish luxury castle
• Design and deliver a unique, castle-led dining concept from scratch
• Craft an à la carte breakfast, a signature Afternoon Tea, and distinctive dinner experiences
• Become the named culinary figure associated with this landmark property
• Develop long-term relationships with the castle gardeners and local producers to build a truly provenance-driven menu
• Participate in PR events and help position the castle as a globally recognised food destination

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Lead and manage a kitchen team with focus, precision and calm authority
• Design menus that balance luxury guest experience with financial performance
• Deliver all culinary aspects of exclusive-use events, weddings and private dinners
• Develop the food offering progressively over time, embedding locally-grown and foraged produce
• Work closely with the Castle Manager and ownership to exceed guest expectations at every touch point

WHO YOU ARE

You have a minimum of two years as Head or Executive Chef (or equivalent experience as a senior Sous Chef) within a high-calibre, internationally recognised operation. You have worked in Ireland for at least three years and understand the local food landscape deeply. You lead with passion, communicate with presence, and thrive in small, agile kitchen environments.

Experience in Michelin-starred or award-winning kitchens is highly desirable. Pastry expertise, allergen awareness and a track record with home-grown or locally sourced produce will all stand in your favour.

PREFERRED BACKGROUND

• Michelin-starred or nationally acclaimed restaurant kitchens
• Luxury hotel or castle food operations with small, high-performing teams
• Properties with strong garden-to-table culinary philosophies
• Pre-opening experience or involvement in launching new food concepts