At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen team and create exceptional dining experiences at a top-rated restaurant.
- Company: The Wild Rabbit, a fine dining gem in the Cotswolds with a focus on organic produce.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts, mental health support, gym memberships, and enhanced holiday pay.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for creativity and career growth.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and elevate your culinary skills in a prestigious environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in multi-rosette or Michelin star kitchens and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 47000 £ per year.
Daylesford Stays - a part of The Bamford Collection. We provide experiences that embrace luxury escapism: understated elegance, indulgence and nurture.
SALARY: £47,000 per annum OTE*
HOURS: 48 hours per week
ABOUT US
The Wild Rabbit in Kingham is a fine dining restaurant and boutique hotel in the heart of the Cotswolds. Recognised in the Top 50 Gastropubs, the Top 50 Boutique Hotels, and awarded 3 AA Rosettes, The Wild Rabbit blends culinary excellence with warm, authentic hospitality. Working in close connection with Daylesford Farm, our menus showcase the best seasonal, organic produce, crafted with skill and creativity. Under the leadership of Executive Chef Callum Graham, our team combines classical technique with modern inspiration, making The Wild Rabbit one of the most exciting fine dining destinations in the Cotswolds.
ABOUT THE ROLE
As Sous Chef, you'll be the right-hand person to the Head Chef, playing a key role in leading the kitchen team and delivering exceptional food experiences every day. You'll be a hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, inspires those around you, and takes genuine pride in maintaining the highest culinary standards.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES
- Support the Head Chef in the day-to-day management of the kitchen, ensuring smooth and efficient service at all times.
- Take ownership of kitchen operations in the Head Chef's absence, leading the team with confidence and maintaining exceptional standards.
- Drive food quality, consistency, and presentation across every dish that leaves the kitchen.
- Assist in managing food costs, stock control, labour expenditure, and kitchen margins to support commercial performance.
- Champion outstanding food safety, hygiene, and health & safety standards, ensuring full compliance across the kitchen.
- Play an active role in menu creation, seasonal development, and bringing fresh ideas to the table.
- Recruit, train, coach, and develop team members, creating a positive culture where individuals can grow and perform at their best.
- Lead by example during service, motivating the team and maintaining a calm, organised, and professional kitchen environment.
SKILLS & EXPERTISE
- Experience working at a multi-rosette or Michelin star level.
- Calm and level-headed under high-stress situations.
- Motivated and hardworking leader.
- Strong understanding of how to improve junior team efficiency and productivity.
PERKS AND BENEFITS
- Discounts on products, treatments, and dining experiences from day one.
- Mental Health Support: 24-hour access to our Employee Assistance Programme through Help@Hand.
- Nationwide Gym Discounts available through Help@Hand.
- Wellbeing modules to provide practical support and advice for your wellbeing.
- 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.
- Enhanced Family Leave Pay (T&C’s apply).
- Enhanced Company Sick Pay (T&C’s apply).
- Enhanced Holiday Pay (up to 33 days per annum including Bank Holidays, Pro-Rata).
- Refer a Friend Scheme - Earn up to £750 when you refer a friend to work with us (T&C’s apply).
- Flu Jabs (optional, available twice per annum).
*The on target earning potential for this role is £47,000 per annum based on a 48-hour contract - comprising a base salary of £43,000, plus a qualified estimate of £4,000 in gratuities and service charge.
Sous Chef, The Wild Rabbit in Witney employer: Bamford Collection
The Bell in Charlbury, part of The Bamford Collection, is an exceptional employer that prioritises sustainability and culinary excellence. With a focus on farm-to-fork principles, employees enjoy a collaborative work culture that fosters creativity and skill development, alongside opportunities for personal growth within a supportive kitchen team. Located in the picturesque Cotswolds, this role offers a unique chance to be part of a renowned establishment that values craftsmanship and guest experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef, The Wild Rabbit in Witney
✨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 Sous Chef, The Wild Rabbit in Witney
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!
