Senior Sous Chef

Position: Senior Sous Chef

Salary: £46,000 plus Benefits and Bonus Scheme

Job Purpose

As Senior Sous Chef at our premier sporting venue, you’ll play a key role in delivering outstanding food experiences for guests, teams, and VIPs. Working closely with the Head Chef, you’ll oversee the day-to-day running of the kitchen, ensuring every service meets the highest standards of taste, presentation, and efficiency. You’ll lead by example in a fast-paced, high-energy environment, inspiring your team to deliver exceptional quality whether it’s a packed match day or an exclusive private event.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Experience

* Create memorable dining moments for all visitors, from hospitality guests and corporate clients to players and event staff.

* Ensure consistency and excellence across all food offerings — from casual outlets to fine dining suites.

Kitchen Operations

* Work alongside the Head Chef to plan, prepare, and deliver menus for both event days and non-event functions.

* Take full responsibility for kitchen operations in the Head Chef’s absence, maintaining smooth and professional service.

* Lead by example during service, ensuring high standards of cooking and presentation under pressure.

Quality & Standards

* Maintain strict control over quality, portion sizes, and food presentation.

* Ensure all dishes meet brand standards and exceed guest expectations.

* Minimise food waste and manage resources efficiently.

Team Leadership

* Supervise and motivate the kitchen brigade, providing hands-on guidance and ongoing development.

* Support recruitment, training, and performance management to build a strong and cohesive team.

* Manage rotas and staffing levels to ensure effective coverage during busy match days and large-scale events.

Menu Development

* Contribute to menu planning and innovation, introducing creative dishes that enhance the venue’s reputation for excellence.

* Adapt menus for seasonal events, themed experiences, and special functions.

Stock & Cost Control

* Assist in ordering ingredients and managing stock levels to meet demand during high-volume events.

* Monitor kitchen budgets, food margins, and supplier performance to support cost efficiency.

Health, Safety & Hygiene

* Maintain full compliance with food safety, allergen, and hygiene regulations at all times.

* Oversee the cleanliness, organisation, and maintenance of kitchen areas and equipment.

Service Delivery

* Oversee the preparation and execution of dishes during peak periods.

* Work closely with front-of-house and event teams to ensure coordinated, timely service.

Leadership & Culture

* Foster a positive, energetic, and team-focused kitchen environment.

* Champion professionalism, collaboration, and pride in delivering first-class food experiences.

Sustainability

* Support the venue’s sustainability initiatives by reducing waste, sourcing responsibly, and promoting efficient kitchen practices.

Knowledge, Skills, and Qualifications

* Previous experience working in a 4-star or 5-star hotel, high-end hospitality venue, or premium lifestyle brand is highly desirable.

* A strong yet approachable leadership and guest service style, capable of motivating teams and delighting guests.

* Highly organised with the ability to work effectively both independently and within a team.

* Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

* Strong command of spoken and written English; additional languages are an advantage.

* Impeccable personal presentation, hygiene, and professionalism — confident and composed under pressure.

* Full, clean UK driving licence required