Our client, a modern and innovative restaurant in Cheltenham, is seeking an enthusiastic, highly organised, and skilled Sous Chef with experience in Michelin-starred and 3 AA Rosette kitchens. Offering includes working breakfasts, lunches, afternoon tea, à la carte dining, and a tasting menu. You will play a key role in supporting the kitchen team, leading service in the absence of the Head Chef and Executive Head Chef and ensuring the consistent delivery of exceptional food.
Job Description – Sous Chef
Reporting to: Executive Head Chef & Head Chef
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the kitchen in the absence of senior chefs, ensuring smooth and efficient service.
- Support the Head Chef in planning, cooking, and presenting dishes to the highest standard.
- Manage daily prep lists, orders, stock levels, and waste records.
- Train, mentor, and monitor team performance, fostering a positive and professional working environment.
- Ensure all dishes are plated correctly and consistently, maintaining the restaurant’s high standards.
- Uphold food safety, hygiene, and Health & Safety regulations, completing due diligence daily.
- Perform and delegate opening and closing kitchen procedures.
- Liaise with suppliers and place daily orders.
- Represent the kitchen team in senior management meetings when required.
Skills & Experience Required
- Minimum 2 years’ Sous Chef experience in a Michelin-starred or 3 AA Rosette environment.
- Strong leadership qualities: approachable, supportive, and confident in managing a team.
- Passion for fresh, local, and seasonal produce, with excellent knowledge of classical techniques.
- Skilled across multiple sections with the ability to adapt during service.
- Clear understanding of Health & Safety and Food Hygiene regulations.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to remain calm under pressure.
Qualifications
- NVQ Level 2/3 in Professional Cookery or equivalent.
- Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 3 preferred).
- Awareness of COSHH and manual handling techniques (desirable).
What We Offer
- Competitive salary (DOE) plus monthly tronc payments.
- Meals on duty & staff meals.
- Discounts on food and drink.
- 28 days holiday.
- Birthday off.
- Company pension scheme.
- In-house training, career development, and progression opportunities.
- A supportive environment that values staff wellbeing and rewards achievement.