Gather
Meet Jamie Muirhead – Our Executive Head Chef at Laggan
Meet Chef Jamie
Behind every beautifully presented plate at GG’s Yard is someone whose passion, patience, and presence define everything we stand for in our kitchens: Jamie Muirhead, our Executive Head Chef.
With over 30 years in the industry, Jamie brings a quiet brilliance to his role that’s shaped by a career full of accolades, lessons, and love for the craft.
From his early days training at Dumfries and Galloway College of Technology and being awarded Student of the Year – to his first kitchen position at the George Hotel Thornhill, Jamie thrived in every one of his roles.
He then progressed to Sous Chef at the prestigious Gilpin Lodge Country House Hotel where he was part of the team that earned 3 AA Rosettes.
From there moved to The Cally Palace in Gatehouse of Fleet, where he went on to hold a Rosette for 18 consecutive years.
Jamie’s culinary pedigree is undeniable and he brings a calm, steady presence, paired with unwavering patience and a genuine passion to the kitchen.
Jamie at Laggan
Since joining Laggan, Jamie has become much more than our Executive Head Chef, he’s a pillar in our business.
To his chefs, Jamie’s a mentor, a leader, and a true ambassador for inclusive, responsible hospitality. He empowers his team to bring their own creativity and culture into the kitchen, nurtures sustainable practices through food partnerships with local producers and goes above and beyond for every event he caters for.
He’s approachable, kind, and universally respected across all departments. Whether it’s a junior team member or a colleague from another area of the business, anyone can turn to Jamie for support or advice, and he’ll always make time for them.
Passion & Care
Jamie’s achievements don’t stop at the pass. He worked as a work based assessor at Dumfries and Galloway College, ensuring compliance, quality and providing guidance across the sector.
Jamie is also a passionate advocate for positive change within the hospitality industry, particularly when it comes to mental health and wellbeing. He has openly shared insights from the Burnt Chef Project with the team, helping break down the stigma surrounding mental health in kitchens and encouraging honest conversations about the pressures that come with the job.
Family & Hobbies
When he’s not creating magic in the kitchen, Jamie enjoys spending time with his family. Ask Jamie about his biggest achievement? Without hesitation, he’ll say his two daughters.
As a lifelong cyclist, Jamie enjoys cycling the Galloway forest trails, has taken part in 10-hour events and paired duathlons, and simply enjoys the freedom of a good social ride.
When he want’s some well-earned downtime, you’ll find Jamie in his “man cave,” learning guitar, or diving into one of his favourite video games!
Quick Fire Q&A
Q: Where did your love of food begin?
A: It all started at home. I was inspired by my granny’s baking, my mum’s cooking, and my dad’s legendary soup. Food was always a big part of our family life.
Q: What’s your favourite food?
A: Beans on toast! But I’m also a big fan of Indian cuisine.
Q: Do you have a favourite ingredient to work with?
A: Definitely fish and game. Those are the ingredients that really get me excited in the kitchen.
Q: What’s your favourite thing about being in the kitchen?
A: Getting lost in what I love—being creative and having the freedom to manage my own work. I also really enjoy teaching and inspiring young chefs.
Q: What advice would you give to someone who wants to follow in your footsteps?
A: Travel. Experience different places. Absorb everything. Try new things. And most importantly, never stop learning.
Jamie Muirhead may be reserved by nature, but his impact resonates loudly throughout Laggan. He’s the calm in the chaos, the teacher behind the talent, and the reason so many of our guests rave about the food experience at GG’s Yard.
We’re proud to call Jamie not just our Executive Chef, but the soul of our kitchen.
