About this role
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Sous Chef to join our professional kitchen team in Pirbright, United Kingdom. In this permanent position, you will work closely with our Head Chef to lead kitchen operations, maintain exceptional culinary standards, and inspire a cohesive kitchen brigade. The successful candidate will be passionate about culinary excellence, demonstrate strong leadership capabilities, and be committed to delivering outstanding cuisine whilst upholding the highest standards of food safety, organisation, and efficiency.
Lead and supervise kitchen staff during all service periods, providing clear direction, constructive feedback, and mentoring to develop their culinary skills and professional growthPrepare and cook dishes to the highest standards, ensuring consistency with established recipes, plating specifications, and quality requirementsManage assigned kitchen stations and oversee multiple stations during service, maintaining efficiency, accuracy, and adherence to timingConduct comprehensive mise en place preparation, ensuring all ingredients, equipment, and workstations are meticulously organised and ready for serviceDeputise for the Head Chef as required, taking responsibility for kitchen operations, decision-making, and staff managementMonitor and maintain strict food safety, hygiene, and health and safety compliance across all kitchen areasAnalyse food costs, portion control, and inventory management to optimise profitability without compromising quality or innovationContribute creatively to menu development, seasonal specials, and culinary innovation, offering fresh ideas and contemporary techniquesManage kitchen inventory levels, communicate stock requirements to senior management, and maintain relationships with suppliers and vendorsConduct quality control checks on all dishes before service, ensuring they meet organisational standards and customer expectationsSupport the kitchen team during peak service periods, maintaining composure, resilience, and efficiency under pressureAssist in staff scheduling, rostering, and induction of new kitchen team membersMaintain detailed records of kitchen operations, food costs, and staff performance as required **Essential Requirements:**
Culinary training qualification or equivalent practical kitchen experience (minimum 4 years, with at least 2 years in a senior kitchen role)Current Food Safety and Hygiene certificationProven leadership and staff supervision experience within a professional kitchen environment Proficiency in a comprehensive range of cooking techniques and food preparation methodsStrong organisational and time management skills with the ability to prioritise multiple tasksExcellent people skills and ability to work collaboratively and assertively within a kitchen brigadeAbility to remain calm, focused, and decisive during high-pressure service periodsIn-depth knowledge of food safety regulations, health and safety compliance, and best practicesMeticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to maintaining high culinary standardsAbility to work in a fast-paced, demanding kitchen environmentExperience in budget management, cost control, and food cost analysisProficiency in kitchen operations, workflow management, and kitchen systems**Desirable Skills:**
Previous experience in a Sous Chef or equivalent senior kitchen roleKnowledge of multiple cuisines, cooking styles, and contemporary culinary techniquesDemonstrated experience in staff training, development, and performance managementFamiliarity with kitchen management systems, point-of-sale technology, and digital ordering platformsExperience in menu development, costing, and culinary innovationUnderstanding of vendor and supplier relationship managementProven ability to work flexibly and adapt to changing kitchen requirementsExperience in a high-volume or fine dining kitchen environment At Aramark UK, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued and empowered to thrive.
As a proud Disability Confident Employer, we actively encourage applications from individuals of all abilities and are dedicated to supporting employees with disabilities throughout their career journey.
We are an Armed Forces Friendly organisation and proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant. We welcome applications from veterans, service leavers, cadet forces adult volunteers, reservists and military families.
We ensure our recruitment process is accessible, and reasonable adjustments are available at every stage, from application to interview and employment. If you require any adjustments or have any questions, please reach out to our recruitment team – [email protected]
Any offer of employment for this role will be conditional upon the successful completion and maintenance of the required level of security clearance. Applicants must meet the relevant eligibility and residency requirements applicable to the clearance level associated with the role.
Join us in fostering a workplace where everyone can achieve their full potential.
All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.