At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our kitchen team as a Sous Chef, creating culinary masterpieces and leading kitchen operations.
- Company: The Blue Boar is part of Acorn Pubs, known for its heart and commitment to sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy up to £33,000 salary, paid overtime, free meals, and great discounts across our pubs.
- Other info: Flexible pay options, wellbeing support, and opportunities for career development await you!
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant team, grow your skills, and make a real impact in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Previous experience in catering or hospitality at junior sous, sous, or kitchen manager level is essential.
The predicted salary is between 26400 - 39600 £ per year.
The Blue Boar is about to begin an exciting new chapter — and we’re looking for an ambitious Sous Chef to be part of it.
As part of a major investment programme across the Acorn Pubs estate, The Blue Boar will soon close for a significant refurbishment before reopening with a fresh new look and renewed ambition. This is a unique opportunity for a talented Sous Chef to join ahead of the relaunch and play a key role in building something special.
Acorn Pubs is part of Brunning & Price, one of the UK’s most respected pub operators, renowned for creating exceptional pubs with character, quality food and drink, and outstanding hospitality.
Located in the heart of Witney, The Blue Boar has long been a favourite with locals and visitors alike. Following a significant investment, the pub will reopen with an enhanced guest experience and an exciting opportunity to create a food offering that reflects the quality and standards Acorn Pubs is known for.
We’re looking for a Sous Chef who brings energy, creativity and strong leadership to the kitchen. Someone who is passionate about fresh, seasonal cooking, takes pride in developing others, and wants to be part of creating a successful kitchen team from the very beginning.
Working closely with the Head Chef, you’ll help shape menus, support the development of the brigade, maintain exceptional standards, and play a key role in delivering a memorable dining experience for every guest.
This is much more than a traditional Sous Chef position. It’s an opportunity to join a major pub relaunch, influence kitchen culture, grow your career, and make your mark on a much-loved destination from day one.
For a chef who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys taking ownership, and wants to be part of an exciting new future for The Blue Boar, this is an exceptional opportunity.
Our Offer
- Basic up to £34k plus tronc (card tips paid into your bank)
- Opportunity to earn an additional £1.5k on the Management Bonus Scheme
- Great cash tips
The Extras
- Free meals on shift, choose from the menu
- 30% discount for you, your friends and family across Acorn Pubs, Brunning & Price and our group including Wagamama and selected airport pubs and restaurants
- NEST pension
- Life assurance for your family
- Perks on Tapsaving – savings on everyday purchases
- Cycle to work scheme
- £1,000 referral bonus for introducing new Managers or Chefs to the company
- Wagestream – flexible pay options
Your Wellbeing – it’s important to us!
- 24‑hour confidential legal and information helpline for you and your family
- Free counselling for all crew
- Access to health checks and virtual GP appointments
- Discounted gym membership
- Plenty of social get‑togethers – it’s not all work and no play
- Recognition platform with regular thank‑yous
We want you to grow with us! Superb internal and external development programmes support your progress. Earn while you learn – we partner with HIT to support work‑based Level 4 Senior Culinary Chef apprenticeships. Advanced Leadership Skills course enhances self‑awareness and soft skills. We encourage movement between our pubs so you can have a long‑term career with us.
About you
Previous experience in catering and hospitality in a restaurant, gastro pub or hotel at junior sous, sous or kitchen manager level is essential, as well as a positive attitude. Working alongside the Head Chef you’ll be responsible for running the kitchen, driving the food culture and keeping your team and our customers engaged with exciting new dishes.
About Acorn Pubs
- A collection of 10 pubs, 6 of which have bedrooms
- Our wider company, Brunning and Price, includes 79 pubs across the country
- A company with heart, where individuality, personality and diversity are encouraged
- A company committed to reducing our carbon footprint, working sustainably and supporting our local communities
- @brunningandpricecareers
Are you ready to be part of a family where you can genuinely make a difference to your pub? Then make your next career move something special and apply now!
Sous Chef in Witney employer: Acorn Pubs
At The Blue Boar, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values creativity and collaboration in the kitchen. With competitive pay, generous benefits including free meals, discounts across our group, and a strong focus on employee wellbeing and development, we foster a supportive work culture where you can thrive and grow your culinary skills. Join us in a vibrant environment that encourages individuality and offers numerous opportunities for career advancement within our expanding family of pubs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef in Witney
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with The Blue Boar's menu and culinary style. Understanding their offerings will help you demonstrate your passion for their cuisine during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Acorn Pubs. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and what the Head Chef might be looking for in a Sous Chef.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing any previous experiences where you led a team or managed kitchen operations. This will highlight your ability to collaborate effectively with the Head Chef.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your ideas for innovative dishes or improvements to existing ones. This will demonstrate your creativity and commitment to enhancing the dining experience at The Blue Boar.
We think you need these skills to ace Sous Chef in Witney
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Sous Chef at The Blue Boar. Highlight your relevant experience in catering and hospitality, especially in a restaurant or pub setting.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to reflect your culinary skills and previous experience. Emphasise any leadership roles you've held in the kitchen and your ability to create exciting new dishes.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for food and your commitment to high standards. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to work closely with a Head Chef and lead a kitchen team.
Showcase Your Personality:The Blue Boar values individuality and personality. Let your unique character shine through in your application. Share anecdotes that reflect your positive attitude and teamwork skills.
How to prepare for a job interview at Acorn Pubs
✨Show Your Passion for Culinary Arts
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for cooking and creating dishes. Share specific examples of your culinary experiences and what inspires you in the kitchen. This will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Highlight Team Collaboration Skills
As a Sous Chef, you'll be working closely with the Head Chef and other kitchen staff. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully collaborated in past roles, and provide examples of how you’ve contributed to a positive team environment.
✨Discuss Your Experience with Food Quality and Presentation
The role requires maintaining high standards of food quality and presentation. Be ready to talk about your previous experiences ensuring these standards, including any specific techniques or practices you follow to achieve exceptional results.
✨Prepare Questions About the Kitchen Culture
Show your interest in the workplace by preparing thoughtful questions about the kitchen culture at The Blue Boar. Ask about their approach to menu development, team dynamics, and how they support creativity in the kitchen. This shows you’re serious about fitting into their team.
