29 April 2025
Filled
Executive Chef
Fritton, Norfolk, NR31

The employer
The Somerleyton Estate is home of food entrepreneur Hugh Somerleyton, his artist wife, and children
Fritton Lake, the premier East of England Members Club is nestled in unrivalled natural beauty in Norfolk, close to Norwich. With roots in British provenance and sustainable agriculture, we’re redefining field-to-fork dining, working with support from renowned chef Mark Hix.
Fritton Lake is part of the Somerleyton Estate, owned by Hugh and Lara Somerleyton. Hugh Somerleyton is also the founder of charity WildEast which celebrates the extraordinary acts of ordinary people doing their bit to restore planet earth and sharing their dreams for a wider future - inspiring others to do the same. The ambition is to restore 20% of WildEast back to nature and record 20% of people on the map of dreams.
The job
As Executive Chef you will help fulfil the families’ career interest in food, hospitality, rewilding and regenerative agriculture.
You will have earned their spurs in notable kitchens and/or their own business seeking a secure long-term opportunity in the Wild East of England. Joining a small, focused management team, you will lead the development of all aspects of the estate food business, initially focused on its renowned member’s club, Fritton Lake.
You will be expected to drive the kitchen and front of house food training and delivery, write compelling menus, work with the farm and local suppliers to ensure best produce and contribute to social media.
- Oversee culinary operations across the Clubhouse, pool bar including tailored menus, and bespoke dining experiences.
- Senior manager on the estate, working closely with the general manager and farm manager on delivery
- Comfortable representing the business externally through social media ad other channels
- Develop innovative menus showcasing locally sourced produce while maintaining excellence and sustainability.
- Collaborate with Mark Hix and local growers to ensure a seamless supply of high-quality ingredients.
- Lead and inspire a dedicated team, ensuring outstanding service and operational efficiency.
- Manage economic and legislative aspects of the culinary business, demonstrating a solid understanding of constraints and solutions.
- Implement and manage effective cost controls, maintaining profitability without compromising quality.
- Be adept at working under pressure and meeting the expectations of a discerning clientele.
- Working alongside one on the UK’s best chefs and forager Mark Hix
- Reporting to the GM, advisory board to include owners Hugh & Lara along with Mark Hix
What you'll need
Proven experience as an operator, with expertise in delivering exceptional food experiences.
A passion for sustainability and a deep understanding of British provenance.
Strong leadership skills, combining creativity with a commitment to excellence.
A solid grasp of culinary economics, legislation, and operational dynamics.
Meticulous attention to detail across all aspects of service and presentation.
Full UK driving licence due to location
Where you'll be based
Fritton Lake is set in unspoilt woodland and lush meadows that surround the sparkling lake at the heart of the club, close to the Norfolk/Suffolk border
What you'll receive
£55,000 - £60,000 per annum dependent on experience
Accommodation available in the form of an estate property, with preferential terms
Employed role (permanent contract)
Working five days from seven on a rota basis, typically 48 hours per week
29 days holiday including bank holidays
Stunning countryside working location
Find out more
To discuss this position in more detail, please send your CV to martin@martin-salter.com or call 07983 967143.
All communication will be treated in complete confidence.