We are seeking an unstuffy, down to earth Executive Chef who is passionate about high-quality ingredients and flavours, creating memorable dining experiences. This is an exceptional opportunity for a leader who appreciates the art of seafood cuisine and thrives in a dynamic, stylish setting. 

Atlantic Gate is a newly created restaurant concept that will be a key part of the refurbished voco Southampton (an IHG hotel). The Executive Chef will be instrumental in this exciting relaunch. 

We will be famous for our carefully crafted seafood dishes and curated cocktails, we aim to provide a refined ambiance where every detail matters — from our open kitchen to our glass-fronted cocktail bar. Our goal is to create a sense of occasion for each guest, making their journey with us unforgettable.

As Executive Chef, you will bring our brand to life, you will lead a talented kitchen team (chance for you to develop and build) in crafting classic seafood dishes that embody relaxed refinement in a unstuffy down to earth way. 

Responsibilities:

• Lead from the front and be out in front - your personality and natural charisma are key in our open kitchen
• Develop and refine our menu, focusing on classic seafood dishes that showcase premium ingredients and bold flavors.
• Collaborate with the front-of-house team to deliver a seamless, sensory dining experience that aligns with our brand’s aesthetic and ambiance.
• Train, mentor, and inspire the kitchen team, fostering a culture of excellence, teamwork, and continuous learning.

You will have:

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Chef in a high-end seafood or branded restaurant. (hotel experience not essential)
• Expertise in seafood preparation and a deep understanding of flavor profiles.
• Strong leadership and team-building skills, with a commitment to excellence and an eye for detail.

In addition to competitive rates of pay and relocation support and TRONC, we also offer:

Exclusive discounts for you, your friends and family

• Valor team member rates at our UK hotels, with rooms from just £30 B&B.
• Discounted stays for friends and family.
• 50% discount when dining in our restaurants and bars.
• Free meals while on duty, keeping you well-fuelled.
• Access to high-street discounts on a range of shops, experiences and more.
• Up to 40% savings on a wide range of bikes, with our Cycle To Work Scheme.
• Generous refer-a-friend bonuses, starting at £250.

Caring for your health and wellbeing, both in and outside of work

• A calendar of wellness activities – from healthy lunches to wellbeing walks and pay day treats, not forgetting our annual #HealthyHabits campaign.
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme, providing free confidential advice, 24/7, for you and your family, supporting physical, mental and financial wellbeing.
• Healthcare Cash Plan options, from just £5 per month.

Supporting your hospitality career growth

• Fully funded apprenticeship programmes.
• Internal development programmes, designed to support you as you grow within your role.
• Monthly and annual team member service awards, making sure your achievements are recognised and celebrated.

Fancy joining our team?

Valor Hospitality is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age. 

Across the UK, we currently operate 34 hotels across leading brands such as Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, DoubleTree by Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn, Hotel Indigo, AC by Marriott and Courtyard by Marriott. We continue to have ambitious development and growth plans too, with three new luxury 5-star hotels planned to open in 2024.