Job Description
Summary
Scotland’s Best Golf Hotel (21-50 rooms) 2022-2023
Machrie Hotel, Isle of Islay, Scotland.
CHEF DE PARTIE / SOUS CHEF
We are located on the stunning Scottish island of Islay, off the west coast of Scotland. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys the countryside, wildlife, golf, and the great outdoors.
We have 47 bedrooms (of various styles), four self-contained lodges, and a split-level suite with two bedrooms. We also have 18 dog-friendly accommodations.
The Machrie’s Restaurant 18 and Stag Lounge offer breathtaking views of the golf course and ocean sunsets. The hotel, which debuted in late 2018, has already been named “Scottish Hotel of the Year 2020.” Additionally, our ancient golf links are currently recognised among Scotland’s top 20 courses. We believe it is time for our food to shine!
Our guests come from all over the island and beyond, drawn to the beauty and challenge of our links course, the wonderful wildlife, unforgettable whisky indulgences (after all, there are ten whisky distilleries on Islay), or simply to relax, enjoy the fresh air and great views, and eat some fantastic food.
Restaurant and Bar 18 is a true hotel hub, from early morning breakfast (ready for your tee off time) to morning coffee and cake, bar snacks for the hungry golfer or lunch with extras for that special treat, and the evening views and sunsets set the stage for a dining experience showcasing the best of Islay and the west coast with whisky treats and an excellent wine selection.
Working with a small enthusiastic team to prepare meals from scratch, you will assist the Head Chef in leaving a legacy at The Machrie for our food.
In collaboration with local island and coastal suppliers, we have concentrated on highlighting the finest of Scottish coastal provenance from land and sea for our hotel guests, golf members, and island residents.
We are recruiting for two critical positions:
Sous Chef
Working and supervising the brigade on day-to-day service delivery and kitchen management, you will be an important member of the team and will fill in for the Head Chef when he is not available.
Producing creative, original, and inspirational goods to the highest standards at all times, you will also be supportive and contribute to the team’s skill development.
We are also seeking for international candidates as part of our International Sponsorship Programme.
We accept applications from couples, but we require that they work in separate departments.
What are we looking for?
You will have great current and relevant experience cooking from fresh – farm/sea to plate and will be looking for opportunities to showcase this further, as well as understanding the significance of being friendly, professional, helpful, and doing everything you can to surpass our guests’ expectations.
Maintaining a can-do and problem-solving mentality, you will be dedicated to the highest standards and have a keen eye for detail.
You will be creative and experienced up to the Sous Chef level, eager to help The Machrie gain recognition. Working as a team means working hard, supporting one another, and having fun.
The role includes day-to-day management of HACCP protocols, mis en place, and food orders; missing an order means a lot more when you’re on an island!
We are looking for someone that takes great delight in ‘all’ food that leaves the kitchen, whether it is breakfast, bar food, staff meals or a la carte products.
Can collaborate with the Head Chef to develop menu items and seasonal variations.
What is in it for you?
This is a full-time employment with an annual salary of up to £35,000 plus guest gratuities and the opportunity for a £3,000 seasonal bonus (see benefits below).
You will be able to use your creativity and knowledge to collaborate with the Head Chef on menu items.
And if you play golf or have always wanted to try it, here is the spot for you!
Chef de partie
As Chef De Partie, you will help the Head Chef and Sous Chef by leading your shift and overseeing the day-to-day operations of your area.
Working with fresh food, you will be responsible for the quality of the mise en place as well as the performance of any Apprentice or Commis Chefs assigned to the section.
Responsible for food storage and preparation, service clean-up, daily HACCP checks, and due diligence documents. Organising the daily workload, allocating jobs, and regularly creating cuisine that meets recipe and presentation requirements.
You will also provide assistance, direction, and training to the team’s junior members, as well as manage stock and record waste.
You will also have the opportunity to hone your abilities in preparation for your next career advancement to a Senior CDP post.
You will work with fresh seafood, steak, wild game, and foraging.
What we need:
SVQ in Food Production at SCQF Level 5, or a comparable qualification or industrial experience.
Current or recent experience as a Demi Chef De Partie or Chef De Partie in a reputable hotel or restaurant.
Applicants will have a good eye for detail, the ability to swiftly establish excellent working connections, and a flexible approach to work.
We would also accept those that reside locally and are searching for part-time work.
Hours worked
This is a full-time position with a salary of up to £28,000 a year, working 45 hours per week during the summer and 40 hours per week during the winter, spread over five days. We also pay overtime at high times and provide time off in lieu during the quieter winter months.
We would also examine applicants who live locally on the island and are searching for part-time work.
Live in accommodation.
If you are relocating to Islay, we provide staff accommodation on-site for individuals who do not drive or within a 10-minute drive of the hotel if you drive. We request a small accommodation payment of between £50 and £70 each week, depending on facilities.
Benefits We Provide to Our Team
In addition to your basic wage, you can receive financial benefits from:
- Guest gratuities are shared monthly among the workforce (about £900 per year if working full-time).
- Residents on Islay who do not live in company-supported accommodation can receive a lump sum payment of up to £200 per month to help with living expenses (pro-rata for part-time employees).
- The Machrie has a ‘Refer a Friend’ initiative, where team members who refer a friend can get a £750 thank you payment.
We also provide additional savings and benefits:
- Friends and family get cheaper accommodations.
- 50% discount on restaurant meals
- Golf facilities include an 18-hole Links course, a driving range, a 6-hole par-3 course, and a training simulator.
- Discounted membership at the Islay Golf Club
- Staff discount at the Golf Pro Shop.
- Use of the hotel gym.
- Uniform given.
- Staff Meals on Duty
- Employee Assistance Programme (24-Hour Helpline)
The Machrie is an important part of the community on Islay, and so will you be. Getting to know the members of the Islay Golf Club, area distilleries, gin and ale vendors, and regular hotel guests.
We understand that island living may not be for everyone. However, if you prefer a simpler lifestyle and appreciate nature’s beauty, we invite you to connect.