We are seeking an adaptable and hands-on Chef / Houseman/person to join a classically English country estate in NN12 . This is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking for a varied, lifestyle-led role within a traditional rural setting, working as part of a small, close-knit household team.
The position combines cooking, household support, and light outdoor duties, making it ideal for someone who enjoys a practical, all-round role and embraces countryside living. While the estate operates as a shooting estate and formal service is required on occasion, the day-to-day environment is relaxed, informal, and team-focused, with wider family members also residing on the estate.
This is a flexible role supporting both the kitchen and the wider household. Cooking is primarily focused around shoot days, events, and entertaining, rather than daily formal service, offering a more balanced and varied working style.
Key Responsibilities (not limited to)
- Preparing and cooking for shoot days, events, and varied entertaining (typically 8–20 guests)
- Assisting with menu planning alongside the principals
- Preparing simple, nutritious meals for the family when required (no daily formal service)
- Assisting with set-up and clear-down for events and shoot lunches
- Providing general houseman support on quieter days
- Supporting the wider estate when needed, including light gardening, driving, and basic vegetable/plant care
Estate Lifestyle
This role will suit someone who enjoys being outdoors and indoors
- Opportunity to work with estate-grown produce
- Involvement with the kitchen garden is highly desirable
- A genuine love of the countryside is essential; experience with rural living is beneficial
- Three resident Labradors – must be comfortable around dogs (a love of horses is a bonus)
Candidate Profile
- Experience as a Cook, Chef, or similar within a private household or estate is helpful
- Practical, hands-on, and adaptable in approach
- Comfortable supporting both inside the house and outdoors
- Calm, discreet, and easy to work with
- Enjoys being part of a small, collaborative team
- Positive, flexible attitude with a willingness to support where needed
Working Pattern
- 5 days per week
- Flexibility required around shoot season and events
- Longer hours on event/shoot days, with flexibility on quieter days
- Well-planned schedule provided in advance
- Alternate Christmas working
Package
- Salary: £40,000+ (dependent on experience; negotiable for the right candidate)
- Long-term, stable position within a well-run private estate
- Support from an established household team
S&WREF:3564731
