At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead kitchen operations and create amazing dishes in a Michelin-starred environment.
- Company: Join the Exclusive Collection, known for luxury and exceptional service.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, free meals, gym access, and exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Work in a certified B Corp committed to sustainability and wellbeing.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team where your ideas matter and growth is supported.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous Chef or senior Chef de Partie in premium hospitality.
The predicted salary is between 43572 - 43572 £ per year.
Location: Horsham
Salary: £43,572 per annum plus fantastic benefits
Working Hours: 48
Closing Date: 04/09/2026
Job Category: Properties: South Lodge and The Spa, Horsham, West Sussex
Departments:
South Lodge, a part of the Exclusive Collection, is home to a Michelin-starred restaurant, an award-winning spa, and the lakeside lodges, The Reeds, which offer a serene retreat where nature, luxury, and wellbeing meet. Together, they create an environment that embodies elegance, creativity, and meticulous attention to detail.
You will join the team at The Pass as a Sous Chef that values leadership, creativity, collaboration, and pride in everything they do. Here, your ideas will be welcomed and your growth supported. At South Lodge, we believe in rewarding our team for their passion and dedication. As part of our team, you’ll enjoy:
- Competitive pay, plus service charge
- Great rates for stays across all our hotels and 50% discount on Food & Beverage dining
- Free meals while on duty
- Free access to the on-site gym and parking
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing resources
- Exclusive discounts and perks through Hospitality Essentials
- Opportunities for growth, learning, and internal movement within the Exclusive Collection
Key Responsibilities
- Support the Executive Chef / Head Chef in leading kitchen operations and maintaining high culinary standards.
- Coordinate the brigade during service, ensuring dishes are delivered on time and to specification.
- Run the kitchen confidently in the absence of the Executive Chef.
- Coach and mentor Chef de Parties, Demi Chefs and Commis Chefs.
- Ensure excellent food safety, hygiene and allergen compliance across all kitchen areas.
- Support menu development and dish refinement to elevate the culinary offer.
- Manage ordering, supplier relationships, stock control and waste reduction.
- Monitor quality, portion control and presentation across all sections.
- Support a positive, professional and development-focused kitchen culture.
Person Specification
- Strong experience as a Sous Chef or senior Chef de Partie in a premium hospitality setting.
- Confident leading service and coordinating a professional kitchen.
- Excellent culinary skills with strong leadership and mentoring ability.
- Solid understanding of kitchen operations, food safety and compliance.
- Calm, organised and solutions-focused during busy periods.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Committed to high standards, consistency and continuous improvement.
We are a certified B Corp, committed to sustainability and responsible business practices. At Exclusive Collection, we champion wellbeing, progression, and a culture where people who share our values can thrive. As an equal opportunities employer, we welcome applications from all individuals with the right to work in the UK. If you require any adjustments during the application process, please let us know.
Sous Chef employer: Exclusive Hotels and Venues
At South Lodge, part of the Exclusive Collection, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of creativity, collaboration, and personal growth. Our team enjoys competitive pay, fantastic benefits including free meals and gym access, and opportunities for career advancement within our prestigious hospitality environment. Join us in a Michelin-starred setting where your culinary talents will be nurtured and celebrated, all while contributing to our commitment to sustainability and wellbeing.
Contact Details:
Exclusive Hotels and Venues Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef
✨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 Exclusive Hotels and Venues. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Exclusive Hotels and Venues
Don't be shy about reaching out to Exclusive Hotels and Venues 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
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 Exclusive Hotels and Venues 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 Exclusive Hotels and Venues
✨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!
