At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create delicious dishes while managing kitchen operations.
- Company: Join Dakota Hotels, a stylish and growing lifestyle brand in the hospitality industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts, bonuses, meals on duty, and access to mental health support.
- Other info: Join an award-winning team committed to quality and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Be part of a positive culture with opportunities for growth and development.
- Qualifications: 5 years cooking experience and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
We are seeking a creative Chef with strong leadership skills to join our Kitchen Team in the role of Senior Sous Chef.
Primary Role Responsibilities
- Supporting the Head Chef with the running of the Kitchen including leading a smooth and busy service.
- Carry out managerial responsibilities including holding interviews and trial shifts, holding appraisals, and performance management.
- Support in driving the commercial performance of the kitchen by writing rotas and managing holidays, helping to write costed menus in line with the desired GP, carrying out stock take, and placing orders.
- Prepare and cook dishes according to the specification as set out by the Head Chef. This pertains to all menus including a la carte, room service, breakfast, bar food, bar snacks, events, and guest amenities.
- Be committed to working wholeheartedly as part of the team, effectively and positively communicating with all members of the kitchen and front of house team.
- Have a passion and display a willingness to train junior Chefs and apprentices in an open working environment of ongoing improvement.
- Strictly adhere to Health & Safety and Food Hygiene legislation following best practice at all times and leading the team to do so consistently.
- Where assigned, write HACCP’s and oversee the completion of due diligence documentation to maintain our high food audit scores.
- Display a willingness to continuously learn and improve your skills as a professional Chef.
Applicant Requirements
- A minimum of 5 years professional cooking experience in restaurant of a high calibre.
- A minimum of 3 years experience as a Junior Sous or above.
- Demonstrate effective leadership and communication skills which are in line with our positive and inclusive working environment.
- Trained and knowledgeable in food hygiene to level 2 or above, HACCP and allergens, although full training will be provided.
- Demonstrate a passion for quality food and preparation.
- Be hardworking and a team‑player.
- An enthusiastic individual who will promote our culture of positivity.
- Be task oriented with a great pride for the work they do and attention to detail.
- Flexible with shift patterns and available around the needs of our business.
- Successful candidates must demonstrate having researched our brand and a genuine desire to be part of our team.
What We Offer
- Financial: Special discounts on stays and dining at any Dakota, bonuses to recommend a friend to join our team and every time you are mentioned on Trip Advisor, additional holiday day on the first anniversary of your employment, meals on duty and uniforming.
- Wellbeing: Access to our Employee Assistance Program which includes free private mental health support and counselling sessions, video GP consultations and private prescription services, as well as access to daily rewards to be cashed out for shopping vouchers, support from our inhouse Mental Health Champions, family‑friendly flexible working options, participation in meaningful initiatives such as Macmillan Cancer Support Coffee Morning and the Walk for Wellbeing.
- Career Development: Accredited, certified compliance training given on employment, access to a suite of external, certified resources via our Learning Management System, supportive continuous professional development culture with an annual appraisal and objectives, or a Personal Development Plan, opportunities to undertake both internal and external training courses, including potential for in-house Apprenticeships.
About Dakota Hotels
Dakota is a growing UK‑based lifestyle brand, known for our stylish hotels, bustling brasseries and upscale cocktail bars. Dakota’s story started with two boutique hotels on the outskirts of Edinburgh, in South Queensferry, and Glasgow, in Eurocentral. We have now expanded into prime city centre locations in Glasgow, Leeds, Manchester, and Newcastle with more in our pipeline. Dakota is synonymous for delivering attentive and genuine guest service. We attract hard‑working individuals who are passionate about working to the highest standards and have been voted within The Caterer’s Top 15 Best Employers in Hospitality for the last five years in a row. We were also featured within the Top 10 employers in the 2024 Sunday Times Best Places to Work in the UK, as well as being awarded the Spotlight Award for Best Places to Work for LGBTQIA+ employees. As recent winners of The Cateys ‘People Team of the Year’, we have award‑winning internal training programmes within Dakota Academy fostering continuous development and ongoing training. As a result, over 75% of our leaders have been promoted internally and, for four consecutive years, a member of our team has won a prestigious Acorn Award awarded by The Caterer to the ‘Top 30 under 30’ in the industry, demonstrating our success in developing talent.
Apply
Please send us your up to date CV.
Senior Sous Chef in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Dakota Hotels
Dakota Hotels is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and positive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a commitment to ongoing development, team members benefit from comprehensive training opportunities, flexible working options, and unique perks such as discounts on stays and dining. Join us in a dynamic environment where your passion for quality food and leadership can flourish, all while being part of a brand recognised as one of the best places to work in hospitality.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Sous Chef in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨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 Dakota Hotels. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Dakota Hotels
Don't be shy about reaching out to Dakota Hotels 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 Senior Sous Chef in Newcastle upon Tyne
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 Dakota Hotels 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 Dakota Hotels
✨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!
