Junior Sous Chef in Manchester

About the Role

The Junior Sous Chef supports the delivery of exceptional, nutritionally balanced meals for elite athletes and staff at Manchester United's Training Ground. The role works alongside the Head Performance Chef, Senior Sous Chef, Club Nutritionists and the wider culinary team to help ensure the highest standards of food quality, presentation and service. It offers an opportunity to develop culinary expertise within a high-performance sporting environment. The postholder supports day-to-day kitchen operations, contributes to menu preparation and innovation, and helps maintain a professional, safe and efficient kitchen that reflects the standards expected at Manchester United.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Head Performance Chef and Senior Sous Chef in preparing and delivering nutritionally focused meals that support athletic performance, recovery and well-being.
• Assist with day-to-day kitchen operations, including food preparation, service, stock rotation, cleanliness, inventory management, stock control and ordering to minimise waste and maximise efficiency.
• Take ownership of designated kitchen sections, ensuring high standards of food quality, presentation and consistency.
• Maintain food hygiene, allergen control and food safety standards in line with HACCP requirements and current legislation.
• Prepare meals in accordance with individual dietary requirements, nutritional plans and medical considerations.
• Assist with menu preparation, recipe development and food innovation initiatives.
• Work collaboratively with chefs, nutritionists and other stakeholders to ensure an exceptional dining experience.
• Support the delivery of hospitality catering for coaches, staff and visiting teams when required.
• Provide guidance and support to Commis Chefs, Kitchen Assistants and other junior members of the team.
• Demonstrate flexibility to support team travel, events and other operational requirements where necessary.

Required Experience & Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2 or Level 3 in Professional Cookery (or equivalent formal culinary qualification).
• Level 2 Food Safety and Hygiene Certificate.
• Previous experience as a Chef de Partie or equivalent role within a high-quality hospitality, fine dining, hotel or sports environment.
• Strong understanding of food preparation techniques, kitchen operations and food safety standards.
• Knowledge of allergens, specialised dietary requirements and nutritional principles.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and work effectively under pressure.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• High attention to detail and commitment to producing food to exceptional standards.
• Positive attitude, willingness to learn and passion for continuous improvement.
• Ability to work in a confidential, professional and high-profile environment.
• Holder of a full, valid passport, with the readiness and ability to travel internationally as required to support the team's operations and events.

Preferred Skills

• Experience working in a professional sports, performance nutrition or athlete-focused environment.
• Understanding of sports nutrition and its application within elite performance settings.
• Experience supporting bespoke dietary requirements and nutritionally focused menu delivery.
• Previous experience mentoring or supporting junior kitchen staff.
• Passion for innovation, nutrition and culinary excellence.

Workplace

• Manchester United Training Ground
• High-performance sporting environment

Benefits & Perks

• Annual Incentive Scheme to reward dedication and hard work.
• 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) and an opportunity to purchase additional holiday days.
• Electric Vehicle scheme via Octopus and cycle to work scheme.
• Simplyhealth Cash Plan supporting everyday healthcare needs.
• Wellness Support with access to mental health resources, digital health checks, and nutritionists through Aviva Digicare+ Workplace.
• Exclusive Discounts through the United Rewards platform, giving access to exclusive deals from the club and partners.
• Gym Facilities in onsite locations and opportunities for regular social events and team-building activities.
• Enhanced family Leave Benefits and policies.
• Enhanced Career Development with access to professional learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, and internal training programmes.
• A Supportive Work Environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion, and individual growth.

About the Company

The team thrives in a high-performance environment, united by a shared passion for success, and aims to elevate the standard of performance through collaboration and continuous growth.

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