Martin Hadden, Historic Sussex Hotels

The Staff Canteen
Martin Hadden

Martin Hadden discusses his role as Executive Head Chef at Historic Sussex Hotels and his own inspirations with regards to pursuing a career as a Chef.

Name: Martin Hadden

Place of work: Historic Sussex Hotels

Role: Group Executive Head Chef

Bio: Martin was working in the Arundel Arms in Devon when he won the Roux Scholarship in 1989, aged just 19, the youngest ever recipient of the scholarship. Through this he did a stage at Restaurant Pic in Valence with Jacques Pic. When he returned to the UK he worked at Gidleigh Park Hotel for three years.

From here he worked at Michelin-starred restaurants including the Waterside Inn and Chez Nico. He took up the position of Head Chef at Ockenden Manor in Cuckfield before opening his own restaurant Priory House, which gained a Michelin star before it closed and Martin took up the role of group executive Head Chef for the Historic Sussex Hotels, which comprise of Ockenden Manor, the Spread Eagle Hotel and Bailiffs Court. 

Follow Martin on Twitter here: @MartinHadden

Chef Skills

Martin Hadden takes us through his personal experiences whilst being in the Culinary Industry. These key skills that young Chefs and industry professionals learn as part of their basic training.

How long have you been in this role?

June 2003.

What are you looking for in those applying to work with you, on CV and in person?

A willingness and eagerness to learn and assume nothing is more important than vocational or academic qualifications. Include achievements on the CV like Duke of Edinburgh, sporting achievements and qualifications, Martial arts, things that show your character and staying power.

What are your ultimate top five tips for someone looking to start a career as a Chef?

  • It is more important to be a good person than a good Chef
  • Go into your career with your eyes open it is a huge commitment with lots of sacrifices to be made if you wish to achieve at a high level
  • Really want to learn and absorb information
  • Read and research constantly, food knowledge is everything
  • Be broad shouldered there will be difficult days along with the good; learn from failures and come out stronger

If you could go back and tell yourself one piece of advice based on what you know now, what would it be?

Your commitment will impact others too, friends and family will need a great deal of consideration, do not be selfish.

Find a Chef Job

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Editor 6th April 2017

Martin Hadden, Historic Sussex Hotels