At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist the Head Chef in managing a vibrant kitchen and delivering top-notch dining experiences.
- Company: Family-run UK business with a lively, customer-focused atmosphere at airports.
- Benefits: Earn £17.43 per hour, enjoy free meals, and access health perks from day one.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusivity are at our core; we welcome all backgrounds to apply.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and make a real impact on customer experiences in a dynamic setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in senior kitchen roles and strong leadership skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 17.43 - 17.43 £ per hour.
We are a family‑run UK business operating food and beverage outlets at airports, delivering exceptional experiences for all our customers. We are looking for a committed and enthusiastic Sous Chef to join our team. The site has a lively, family‑friendly atmosphere, and our people are central to the success of our restaurants.
As Sous Chef, you’ll assist the Head Chef in managing the kitchen and ensure that food is prepared to the highest standards. You will be a reliable, hardworking, and enthusiastic team player, passionate about food and beverages and dedicated to providing exceptional customer dining experiences.
Main Duties:
- Ensure smooth service of high standards, particularly in the absence of the Head Chef.
- Support the Head Chef with stock control and ordering.
- Oversee, coach, and guide the team to ensure outstanding customer service, while adhering to health and safety and hygiene regulations.
- Prepare staff rotas and ensure clear task allocation during shift briefs.
- Support recruitment, induction, and training of new team members and provide feedback on team development.
- Motivate the team through effective communication and feedback.
- Address staff concerns or provide corrective feedback in a timely manner.
- Keep the wider management team informed of any key issues during shifts.
- Work collaboratively with front‑of‑house colleagues to ensure excellent customer service.
Requirements:
We are looking for an experienced, self‑motivated, and enthusiastic individual who is flexible with shift patterns and willing to undertake a variety of duties as needed.
Preferred Criteria:
- Qualifications: Advanced Food Hygiene certificate (desirable but not essential).
- Relevant Experience: Extensive senior‑level kitchen experience with leadership responsibility; familiarity with airport‑based hospitality settings; proven ability to assess and address health and safety or food preparation concerns.
- Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Excellent communication skills; ability to build strong relationships with colleagues; proven ability to manage teams and individuals in a kitchen setting; highly organised and able to engage others while working under pressure; ability to manage conflicting priorities while maintaining service levels; ability to manage stock ordering and rotation effectively, maximising revenue and reducing waste.
- Personal Qualities: Self‑motivated, decisive, exceptional team leadership skills, resilient and calm under pressure.
Salary & Benefits:
£17.43 per hour. Tronc (tips and gratuities distribution system) via an elected troncmaster. NEST pension. Free meals while on duty at the site, from the 'Staff Duty Meal' options. Health & wellbeing cash plan, also offering discounts and perks across hundreds of retailers. Access to our Employee Assistance Programme for health and well‑being support from day one. 28 days annual leave (including Bank Holidays), increasing by 1 day a year up to a maximum of 32 days. Staff referral bonus scheme.
Please note:
All successful candidates will be required to provide proof of their right to work in the UK, hold an Airport Security ID Pass—which we will assist with—and the application process requires the production of a valid passport, a criminal record check, and five years of personal and employment references.
Equal Opportunities:
At ARE Ltd, we recognise the value of diversity and inclusivity in fostering a truly remarkable experience for all our customers. Our commitment extends beyond retail to building a workforce that reflects a wide array of perspectives and experiences. We believe that embracing diversity in our teams enables us to provide exceptional service and innovation. We are dedicated to ensuring all our employees are treated fairly and equitably at work, with a strong commitment to promoting equity in both physical and mental health for everyone. To achieve this, we encourage applications from individuals of disadvantaged socio‑economic backgrounds, disabled persons, LGBTQ+ community members, Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, and those with lived experiences of discrimination.
Accessibility and Adjustments:
ARE Ltd is committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process. We strive to be as accommodating as possible to ensure all candidates can participate fully. If you have specific requirements or need adjustments at any stage of the application or interview process, please do not hesitate to get in touch. In your application, feel free to indicate your preferred pronouns (for example – she/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/theirs, etc.) to help us better address and respect your identity throughout the process.
Sous Chef employer: Great Northern Market
Join our family-run business at the airport, where we pride ourselves on creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere for both our customers and employees. As a Sous Chef, you'll not only enjoy competitive pay and benefits like free meals and a health cash plan, but you'll also have the opportunity to grow within a supportive team that values diversity and inclusivity. We are committed to your professional development, ensuring you thrive in a dynamic kitchen environment while delivering exceptional dining experiences.
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 Great Northern Market. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Great Northern Market
Don't be shy about reaching out to Great Northern Market 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 Great Northern Market 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 Great Northern Market
✨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!
