At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Head Chef in delivering exceptional food and running a vibrant kitchen.
- Company: The Bell, a modern British pub with a focus on quality and community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, discounts, private medical, and mental health support.
- Other info: Opportunity to contribute to menu development and work with fresh, organic ingredients.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and grow your culinary skills in a creative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Chef de Partie or Junior Sous Chef in a professional kitchen.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 40500 £ per year.
Daylesford Stays - a part of The Bamford Collection. We provide experiences that embrace luxury escapism: understated elegance, indulgence and nurture.
EARNINGS £40,500 per annum OTE*
HOURS 48 hours per week
ABOUT US
The Bell in Charlbury is a laidback yet sophisticated modern British pub settled in a 17th Century Cotswolds building. Known as a hidden gem, it offers a warm, family‑friendly space that opens into a dining experience focused on quality. With 13 beautifully appointed rooms and visually stunning food with vibrant organic seasonal ingredients from Daylesford Farm, The Bell combines comforting dishes with culinary flair. Deeply rooted in the community, it regularly hosts events and workshops in collaboration with local organisations. Under the guidance of Nathan Walker‑Unwin, an integral figure in the opening of two acclaimed Daylesford pubs, The Bell fosters a culture where every team member is valued and every guest is welcomed like family.
ABOUT THE ROLE
As Junior Sous Chef, you’ll play a key role in supporting Jason Christie, Head Chef, in delivering outstanding food and ensuring the smooth day‑to‑day running of the kitchen. Working with fresh, high‑quality ingredients sourced from Daylesford Organic Farm, you’ll have the opportunity to be involved in menu development, help inspire and develop a talented kitchen team, and continue building your own culinary skills in a creative and supportive environment. This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious chef looking to take the next step in their career within a business that champions sustainability, craftsmanship, and true farm‑to‑fork dining. If you thrive in a fast‑paced kitchen, love working with exceptional produce, and are ready to grow within a passionate team, we’d love to hear from you.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES
- Support the smooth and efficient day‑to‑day running of the kitchen, maintaining exceptional food quality and service standards.
- Take responsibility for kitchen operations in the absence of the Head Chef, ensuring service excellence and team performance.
- Lead, motivate, train, and support the development of junior team members while continuing your own leadership growth.
- Ensure the highest standards of food hygiene, health and safety, and compliance are consistently maintained.
- Support cost control through effective stock management, waste reduction, portion control, and labour planning.
- Contribute to menu development, bringing creativity and supporting the testing and delivery of seasonal dishes.
- Act as a key communication link within the kitchen team, supporting daily planning and ensuring efficient operations during service.
SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS
- Previous experience working as a Chef de Partie or Junior Sous Chef within a professional kitchen environment.
- Proven experience supporting the management of a busy kitchen operation and assisting with kitchen leadership responsibilities.
- Demonstrated ability to lead sections effectively, coordinate service, and maintain high standards during fast‑paced and high‑pressure service periods.
- Strong understanding of food hygiene, health & safety, and kitchen safety procedures.
- Knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices, with a commitment to maintaining compliance at all times.
- Passionate about high‑quality food and committed to delivering exceptional culinary standards while contributing to the overall success of the kitchen team.
- Calm, organised, and reliable, with the ability to perform effectively under pressure in a fast‑paced kitchen environment.
- Proactive approach to problem‑solving and confident decision‑making during service.
- Able to take initiative while working collaboratively as part of a close‑knit and supportive kitchen team.
- Demonstrates genuine enthusiasm for food and a strong commitment to quality, consistency, and attention to detail.
- Maintains professionalism, composure, and a positive attitude during busy and high‑pressure service periods.
PERKS AND BENEFITS
- Discounts: Enjoy a range of discounts on our products, treatments, and dining experiences from day one.
- Volunteering Days: One paid day per year to volunteer with a charity of your choice.
- Private Medical: Subsidised private medical insurance through Bupa.
- Pension Scheme: Pay up to 9 percent of your salary into your pension each month with a 4.5 percent contribution from us.
- Life Assurance: Cover equivalent to one year of your annual salary.
- Mental Health Support: 24 hour access to our Employee Assistance Programme.
* The on target earning potential for this role is £40,500 per annum based on a 48‑hour contract – comprising a base salary of £36,500, plus a qualified estimate of £4,000 in gratuities and service charge.
The Bamford Collection is a group of consciously minded lifestyle brands committed to nourishing and nurturing people and planet.
Junior Sous Chef, The Bell in Chipping Norton employer: Bamford Collection
The Bell in Charlbury is an exceptional employer that fosters a warm and inclusive work culture, where every team member is valued and encouraged to grow. With a focus on sustainability and high-quality, seasonal ingredients from Daylesford Farm, employees enjoy opportunities for culinary development, alongside benefits such as private medical insurance, volunteering days, and a supportive environment that prioritises mental health. Join us in a beautiful Cotswolds setting, where your passion for food can flourish within a dedicated and creative kitchen team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Sous Chef, The Bell in Chipping Norton
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Bamford Collection. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Bamford Collection
Don't be shy about reaching out to Bamford Collection directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Sous Chef, The Bell in Chipping Norton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Bamford Collection and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bamford Collection
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
