Head Chef+ jobs in Red Bay

Head Chef – Marine Ballycastle

Located on the stunning North Antrim coastline, Marine Ballycastle is an independently owned hotel offering relaxed coastal hospitality with breathtaking sea views across to Scotland. A popular destination for both guests and locals, the hotel combines fresh, seasonal food with a warm and welcoming dining experience.

Our Purpose

We exist to create unforgettable experiences for every guest, every time. Whether it’s a beautifully prepared dish, balanced flavours, or a memorable dining experience, we take pride in the moments we create.

Join Our Team – Where Coastal Dining Meets Culinary Leadership

We are seeking a talented and experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen at Marine Ballycastle. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the food offering, champion local produce, and build a strong, motivated kitchen team in a busy coastal hotel.

You’ll have the autonomy to influence menus, drive standards, and position the hotel as a go-to dining destination in the area.

What You’ll Do

As Head Chef, you will take full ownership of the kitchen operation and lead the culinary direction of the hotel. You will be responsible for:

• Designing and delivering seasonal menus focused on fresh, locally sourced ingredients
• Leading, developing, and inspiring the kitchen team to achieve consistently high standards
• Maintaining exceptional food quality, presentation, and consistency
• Managing all kitchen operations including stock control, ordering, and supplier relationships
• Driving GP performance and managing costs effectively
• Ensuring full compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health safety standards
• Creating a positive, professional, and collaborative kitchen culture
• Enhancing the hotel’s reputation through strong guest dining experiences

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for a confident and capable Head Chef who can lead from the front and bring both structure and creativity to the kitchen.

You’ll have:

• Previous experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a busy hotel or restaurant
• Strong focus on fresh, seasonal produce and quality-driven menus
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to develop and retain a high-performing team
• Solid commercial awareness including GP management and cost control
• Ability to perform under pressure in a fast-paced environment
• A hands-on approach with high personal standards

What We Offer

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Share of service charge
• Free uniform
• Meals on duty
• A supportive and collaborative working environment
• Opportunity to shape and influence the food offering
• Training and development opportunities
• Refer-a-friend bonus

Equal Opportunities

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone is treated fairly, respectfully, and without bias.

stage in accordance with the Asylum and Immigration Act 1996.

About Us
Marine Ballycastle is an independently owned coastal hotel overlooking the North Antrim coastline, offering relaxed hospitality and stunning sea views. Managed by Schulte Hospitality Group, we combine local character with global expertise. We’re proud to create a welcoming environment for both our guests and our team.

Offering 51 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, many with sweeping sea views, the hotel combines refined comfort with timeless coastal style. Guests can enjoy locally inspired dining at Marconi’s Bar Bistro while taking in the dramatic scenery. With exceptional spaces for weddings, events, and celebrations for up to 600 guests, the Marine Hotel is a distinguished base for discovering Rathlin Island, the Giant’s Causeway, and the wider North Antrim coastline.