Chef & House Manager couple for luxury estate Yorkshire, cottage, £120k+ gross pa

Resident Hospitality Couple (Chef & House Manager) – Luxury Country Estate, Yorkshire An exceptional opportunity to launch and operate a prestigious private country house destination in the heart of Yorkshire. A beautifully restored country estate is opening its doors for exclusive private hire for the first time in its history.

Set within stunning riverside grounds and offering luxury accommodation, leisure facilities, and extensive entertaining spaces, the property is poised to become one of the UK's leading destinations for corporate retreats, family celebrations, and private gatherings. We are seeking an experienced and entrepreneurial hospitality couple (Chef & House Manager) to take responsibility for the overall guest experience, operational management, and commercial success of the estate's hospitality offering.

The Opportunity This is a hands-on role combining luxury hospitality, guest experience, property management, and business development. The successful couple will be instrumental in establishing the property's reputation from launch and creating a destination known for exceptional service, outstanding food, and memorable experiences.

Key Responsibilities

Hospitality & Guest Experience Deliver exceptional guest experiences from initial enquiry through to departure. Maintain the property and grounds-facing hospitality areas to the highest presentation standards. Oversee housekeeping, service delivery, and day-to-day operations. Curate bespoke experiences and activities for guests in partnership with local providers.

Ensure every stay reflects the highest standards of luxury hospitality. Food & Beverage One partner will act as Resident Chef, creating and delivering seasonal menus for private and corporate groups. Cater for a range of occasions, from relaxed family gatherings to formal dinners and events. Utilise estate-grown produce where possible and maintain consistently high culinary standards.

Commercial & Operational Management Drive occupancy, bookings, and revenue throughout the year. Manage guest enquiries, reservations, and relationships with booking agents and corporate clients. Support marketing initiatives and reputation-building activities. Foster repeat business, referrals, and outstanding guest reviews.

The Ideal Couple We are looking for a proven hospitality partnership with experience managing a large private estate, a country house hotel or boutique accommodation business. The successful candidates will demonstrate: Strong hospitality and guest service expertise. Commercial awareness and experience driving bookings and revenue.

Excellent leadership and organisational skills. A warm, engaging, and professional approach to hosting. An accomplished chef within the partnership, capable of catering for groups to a high standard. Energy, initiative, and a genuine desire to build a successful hospitality business. Team Structure The couple will manage the on-site hospitality operation, including housekeeping and casual event staff, while working closely with the wider estate management team.

Estate maintenance and grounds management are handled separately. Accommodation and package A private cottage on the estate is provided as part of the package, together with an excellent salary negotiable around £120k+ gross pa (according to experience). Interviewing now to start in September.