At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create delicious dishes for zoo visitors.
- Company: Join RA Venues at Twycross Zoo, a vibrant and inclusive workplace.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, free meals, zoo tickets, and 20 days annual leave.
- Other info: Opportunities for growth in a supportive, values-driven culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fun, fast-paced environment while showcasing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in a busy kitchen and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 35000 £ per year.
Location: Twycross Zoo
Salary: Up to £35,000 per annum
Contract: Full-Time, Permanent, 40 hours per week, 5 days out of 7
Are you an experienced Sous Chef looking for an exciting opportunity to work in a busy, multi-site visitor attraction? RA Venues is seeking a hands-on, proactive Sous Chef to support food production and service across a variety of high-volume catering outlets at Twycross Zoo. This is a fantastic role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys variety in their work.
What We Offer:
- A collaborative and inclusive culture, where your ideas are valued, and creativity is encouraged.
- 20 days annual leave (excluding bank holidays)
- Free staff parking
- Free tickets to the zoo
- Free staff meals whilst working on site
- Compass reward scheme
- A supportive, values-driven culture within cohesive teams
- Opportunities for growth and development within a national business
- A chance to make a meaningful impact in a continuously growing sector
About the Role:
As Sous Chef at Twycross Zoo, you will support the Head Chef in overseeing kitchen operations across the attraction’s multiple food outlets and events. You will lead the kitchen team, ensuring high-quality food production, excellent service, and adherence to all health, safety, and food hygiene standards. Key aspects of the role include managing food preparation, allergen compliance, stock control, deliveries, and team leadership. You will also assist with food management systems, helping to ensure operational efficiency and consistency across all areas. This is a hands-on role requiring flexibility, strong organisational skills, and the ability to work effectively in a busy, multi-function environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Food Production & Service: Prepare, cook, and assist in serving high-quality dishes across multiple high-volume retail and catering sites
- Health & Safety & Food Safety: Maintain compliance with all food hygiene, allergen, and health & safety standards
- Team Leadership: Lead and motivate a small kitchen team, including rota management and on-the-job training
- Stock & Ordering: Manage ordering, deliveries, and stock control to ensure efficient operations
- Food Management Systems: Support accurate recording and reporting using food management software and processes
- Event Support: Deliver catering for events across the site, maintaining high standards under pressure
The Ideal Candidate:
- Minimum 3 years’ experience in a busy, multi-function kitchen
- Proven experience managing a small team and overseeing kitchen operations
- Strong knowledge of food safety, allergens, and health & safety legislation
- Experience with food management systems and stock control
- Excellent leadership, organisational, and communication skills
- Adaptable, proactive, and able to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
- Passionate about food, hospitality, and delivering excellent visitor experiences
- Experience in a similar visitor-led environment is desirable
RA Venues Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!
Sous Chef NEW RA Venues Posted today £35,000 per year Atherstone Chefs employer: Chartwells Independent
RA Venues offers an exceptional work environment for Sous Chefs at Twycross Zoo, where creativity and collaboration are at the heart of our inclusive culture. With competitive benefits such as free staff meals, zoo tickets, and opportunities for professional growth within a national business, we empower our team to thrive in a dynamic setting that values their contributions. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a vibrant sector while enjoying the unique experience of working in a multi-site visitor attraction.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef NEW RA Venues Posted today £35,000 per year Atherstone Chefs
✨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 Chartwells Independent. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Chartwells Independent
Don't be shy about reaching out to Chartwells Independent 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 NEW RA Venues Posted today £35,000 per year Atherstone Chefs
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 Chartwells Independent 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 Chartwells Independent
✨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!
