At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a fresh-food kitchen, create specials, and support junior chefs.
- Company: Craft Locals, a growing independent pub group with a focus on exceptional food.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, tips, discounts, 28 days holiday, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Clear progression pathway to Head Chef and supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Take on real responsibility and influence the menu in a vibrant pub environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in fresh-food kitchens and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 33900 - 37700 £ per year.
We are looking for a passionate Sous Chef who wants to develop their career and showcase their skills. At Craft Locals, we give our chefs the platform to grow, with clear progression to running their own kitchen in the future.
Tucked away by the canal at Bulbourne, just outside Tring, the Grand Junction Arms is a destination for those who love proper pubs. Whether you’re arriving from the Chiltern Hills, cycling along the towpath, or making the short trip from London by train, you’ll always find a warm welcome.
With vast gardens, outdoor bars and plenty of space to enjoy long summer days by the water, the Grand Junction is made for big gatherings and lazy afternoons. Inside, you’ll discover a buzzing pub atmosphere, with a great range of craft beers, cask ales, premium spirits and a carefully chosen wine list.
Our kitchen serves fresh, seasonal menus built around traditional pub favourites, elevated with local produce and contemporary touches. Every dish is cooked to order, with daily specials and sharers designed for lively tables.
This is your chance to join a growing independent pub group, take on responsibility in a fresh-food kitchen, and build your career in a supportive environment.
What’s in it for you
- Pay: £14.50–£16.10/hr (equivalent to £33,900–£37,700/year)
- Tips: Share of card tips
- Perks: 50% off food & 20% off drinks across the group, 28 days holiday, staff discount, team socials
- Training: Supplier visits, brewery trips, leadership development and menu design opportunities
- Autonomy: Input into specials and menus, with the freedom to showcase your skills
- Progression: Clear pathway to Head Chef
What you’ll be doing
- Leading the kitchen team in the absence of the Head Chef
- Guiding, supporting and training junior chefs
- Assisting in menu development and creating specials
- Managing stock, ordering and food margins effectively
- Maintaining HACCP and all food safety compliance
- Helping to manage labour costs and kitchen financial performance
What we’re looking for
- Experience in fresh-food pubs or restaurants at Sous level or strong Junior Sous ready to step up
- A creative chef with good organisation and planning skills
- Skilled in costing dishes and managing margins
- Knowledgeable and trained in HACCP and food safety
- A leader with a positive attitude who motivates the team
- Ambitious and eager to progress to Head Chef in the future
This is your chance to take on real responsibility, influence the menu, and grow your career in a food-led, independent pub group. Apply today and join the team.
Craft Locals is a growing group of people-focused pubs, dedicated to delivering exceptional food, well-kept cask ale, and memorable guest experiences. We believe great pubs start with great teams, and we invest in our people — giving them the support, training, and tools they need to shine.
We’ve built systems that make running a pub straightforward and compliant, so our teams can focus on what really matters: welcoming guests and delivering an outstanding experience. From reservations to stock, scheduling to events, we use a suite of best-in-class tools to simplify operations and keep everything running smoothly.
At Craft Locals, we’re proud to combine a love of people, food, and drink with smart systems and strong support — creating pubs that teams enjoy working in and guests love visiting.
Senior Sous Chef: Lead a Fresh-Food Pub Kitchen in Tring employer: Craft Locals - The Grand Junction Arms
Craft Locals is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its team members, offering a clear pathway to advance from Sous Chef to Head Chef. Located at the picturesque Grand Junction Arms by the canal in Bulbourne, Hertfordshire, our vibrant work culture fosters creativity and collaboration, with opportunities for training, menu design, and team socials. Enjoy competitive pay, generous discounts, and the chance to be part of a passionate team dedicated to delivering memorable dining experiences in a supportive environment.
Contact Details:
Craft Locals - The Grand Junction Arms Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Sous Chef: Lead a Fresh-Food Pub Kitchen in Tring
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the pub scene! Visit local pubs, chat with chefs, and soak up the atmosphere. This will not only help you understand what makes a great pub kitchen tick but also give you some insider knowledge to impress during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with other chefs and industry professionals on social media platforms like LinkedIn. Join relevant groups and engage in conversations to build relationships that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio of your best dishes and any special menus you've developed. Bring this along to interviews to demonstrate your creativity and passion for fresh food – it’ll definitely set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining Craft Locals and being part of our fantastic team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Sous Chef: Lead a Fresh-Food Pub Kitchen in Tring
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for fresh food and cooking shine through. We want to see your enthusiasm for the culinary arts and how it aligns with our mission at Craft Locals.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure to tailor your CV to highlight your experience in fresh-food pubs or restaurants. We’re looking for specific skills and experiences that match what we do, so don’t be shy about showcasing your relevant background!
Be Authentic:In your cover letter, be yourself! Share your journey in the kitchen and what motivates you as a chef. We appreciate authenticity and want to know what makes you tick and how you can contribute to our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at the Grand Junction Arms.
How to prepare for a job interview at Craft Locals - The Grand Junction Arms
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with the types of dishes Craft Locals serves. Be ready to discuss how you would elevate traditional pub favourites using local produce and your own creative flair.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Sous Chef, you'll be leading a team. Prepare examples of how you've guided and trained junior chefs in the past. Highlight your positive attitude and how you motivate others to create a harmonious kitchen environment.
✨Understand Food Safety Compliance
Brush up on HACCP and food safety regulations. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve maintained compliance in previous roles and how you plan to ensure high standards in the kitchen at Craft Locals.
✨Demonstrate Your Ambition
Craft Locals is looking for someone eager to progress to Head Chef. Share your career goals and how this position aligns with your aspirations. Show them that you're not just looking for a job, but a place to grow and make an impact.
