Head Chef

For an innovative hospitality concept by the water, we are looking for an experienced and energetic Head Chef who is ready for a versatile leadership role within a dynamic team.

Do you enjoy working with pure, locally sourced ingredients in a kitchen where creativity, quality, and team spirit come together? And does the idea of cooking daily at a scenic lakeside location with capacity for 200 à la carte guests and events up to 450 people excite you?

Then this is your moment.

About the Location

Tucked away in the greenery, this unique venue is set on a beautiful lake in the heart of the Haarlemmermeerse Bos. It’s a beloved spot for lunch, dinner, weddings, barbecues, and food festivals. The atmosphere is warm and relaxed, the kitchen focuses on honest cuisine, and the team is driven and ambitious.

The location is part of a growing hospitality group with several distinctive venues, including a rooftop restaurant in Amsterdam and a lifestyle hotel that is part of an international hotel chain. It’s a brand with a rich history dating back to the late 1980s—and one that is fully focused on the future.

Your role

As Head Chef, you’ll lead a team of around 10 kitchen staff. You ensure smooth operations, maintain quality and create structure – even in peak hours.

You’ll work closely with the Operations Manager & Sous Chef to ensure consistency, strong concept development and great guest experiences.

You’ll be responsible for:

• Full kitchen operations and daily management

• Scheduling, staffing, team structure and coaching

• Inventory and purchasing, menu engineering and cost control

• HACCP compliance and kitchen hygiene

• Contributing to the development of food concepts and events (BBQs, dinners, festivals)

• Supplier relations and advising on contracts

Who we’re looking for

We’re seeking a proactive and entrepreneurial chef who thrives in a dynamic environment. You enjoy variety, taking responsibility and working closely with your team. You’re not just a great cook – you're a mentor, a planner and a creative contributor.

Must-haves:

• At least 2 years of experience as Sous Chef or Head Chef

• Solid knowledge of HACCP, cooking techniques, pricing and menu design

• A team player with leadership skills and strong organization

• A “can do” mentality and eye for quality

What’s in it for you?

• 1-year contract with a 1-month probation period

• Salary based on experience (Hospitality CAO scale 9) with growth potential

• Bonus scheme – earn up to 12% of your annual salary

• Travel allowance of €0.23 per km

• Free on-site parking

• 4 complimentary overnight stays per year

• Monthly lunch or dinner for you and your friends/family at one of the restaurants

• 20% staff discount

• Discounts on stays & F&B

• Bike lease option via Lease a Bike

• Pension scheme via PH&C

• Time-for-time hours (TVT) with a strong focus on work-life balance

• Typically a 4-day workweek during winter months

• Fun team activities: workshops, tournaments, BBQs and more

• Access to training & courses

• Participation in year-round culinary workshops, trade fair visits and supplier experiences

Ready to lead an inspiring kitchen, grow a motivated team and work in one of the most scenic restaurant locations in the Netherlands?

Apply now via The Hospitality Recruiters and turn your experience into the next exciting chapter of your culinary career.