At a Glance
- Tasks: Create fantastic food and lead a dynamic kitchen team.
- Company: Join the stunning Woodlands Park Hotel, part of Hand Picked Hotels.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, generous holiday, and discounts on stays and dining.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values inclusion and personal growth.
- Why this job: Progress your culinary career in a supportive and innovative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in quality-driven kitchens and a passion for food trends.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 40000 € per year.
We are currently recruiting for a Junior Sous Chef at Woodlands Park Hotel, part of Hand Picked Hotels. Woodlands Park Hotel is a stunning country house hotel set in landscaped grounds and gardens, one of Surrey’s most spectacular countryside wedding venues. It is an AA awarded 4 Star Hotel with 57 bedrooms, a 2 AA Rosette fine dining restaurant, conference and event function rooms and a bar.
About the Role
Are you an experienced Chef looking to progress your Kitchen Management experience? We know the step from being a Chef de Partie to Junior Sous Chef can be a big one so here at Hand Picked Hotels we aim to equip our Junior Sous Chefs with the skills they need to take that step. From involvement in office and paperwork responsibilities, to people management training courses and development with your culinary skills, we will help give you the exposure you need to develop your career as a Chef. And of course alongside all of that you get to do what you do best, create fantastic food and help lead the team in our professional kitchens.
About You
- Excellent knowledge and experience of the kitchen within a quality‑driven hotel, restaurant, or hospitality environment.
- Enthusiastic and willing to take on new responsibilities.
- Adopt a flexible approach to assist in different areas of the kitchen as business and guest needs dictate.
- Ability to impart knowledge to junior members of the team.
- Finger on the pulse of all the latest trends, and desire to learn the next big thing.
- High level of emotional intelligence, able to anticipate guests’ needs ensuring they receive a Hand Picked experience.
- Demonstrated ability to deliver guest experience standards at Hand Picked Hotels, including going above and beyond to ensure guests have a high-quality, personalised, magical experience they remember, recommend, and return to time and time again.
Company Benefits
- A competitive salary package of £17.29 per hour plus a share of service charge.
- Full‑time role working 5 days out of 7 including weekends on a rota basis, 40 hours per week, may vary depending on business needs.
- Company pension scheme with generous employer contribution.
- Life assurance scheme.
- Employee Assistance Program to support you with whatever life throws at you.
- Company Sickness Scheme Benefit.
- 28 days holiday per year including bank holidays, increasing to 33 days including bank holidays with length of service.
- Forward career progression, access to our in‑house and external training programs, including apprenticeships up to level 7, supported by our learning and development team.
- £30 staff stays with Hand Picked Hotels per room Bed & Breakfast & 25% discount on all food & drink.
- Annual loyalty awards (like afternoon teas and overnight stays).
- Online retail discount platform offering thousands of savings with high‑street retailers and restaurants as well as a health and well‑being platform.
- Opportunity to make lifelong friendships and be part of a team that celebrates Diversity and Inclusion.
Hand Picked Hotels is an Equal Opportunities employer. Candidates must be eligible to live and work in the UK.
Junior Sous Chef employer: Hand Picked Hotels Ltd
At Hand Picked Hotels, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment at the picturesque Woodlands Park Hotel. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through comprehensive training programmes, competitive benefits including generous holiday allowances and discounts, and a culture that celebrates diversity and inclusion. Join us to not only hone your culinary skills but also to build lasting relationships in a team dedicated to delivering memorable guest experiences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Sous Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, try to connect with current staff on social media or through networking events. This gives you insider info about the kitchen culture and shows your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your culinary skills! If you get the chance, bring a dish that represents your style or a recent trend you've mastered. It’s a great way to demonstrate your passion and creativity right from the start.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to chat about your experiences! Prepare some stories that highlight your kitchen management skills and how you've helped others grow. This will show that you're not just a great chef but also a team player.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Hand Picked Hotels family. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Sous Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cooking:When writing your application, let your love for food and cooking shine through. Share your culinary journey and what inspires you in the kitchen. We want to see that spark that makes you excited about being a Junior Sous Chef!
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Highlight your relevant experience in quality-driven kitchens and any leadership roles you've had. We appreciate when candidates take the time to connect their skills with what we’re looking for.
Be Authentic and Personal:Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your application. Share anecdotes or experiences that showcase your ability to work in a team and your passion for guest satisfaction. We love getting to know the real you!
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hand Picked Hotels Ltd
✨Know Your Culinary Basics
Brush up on your culinary techniques and kitchen management skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with different cuisines, cooking methods, and how you handle kitchen operations. This will show that you're not just a great cook but also understand the bigger picture of running a kitchen.
✨Show Your Passion for Food
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for food shine through. Talk about your favourite dishes to create, any recent trends you've been following, and how you incorporate seasonal ingredients. This will demonstrate your commitment to quality and creativity in the kitchen.
✨Prepare for Team Dynamics
As a Junior Sous Chef, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and how you mentor junior chefs. Share examples of how you've successfully worked in a team environment and resolved conflicts, as this will highlight your emotional intelligence and people management skills.
✨Understand the Guest Experience
Familiarise yourself with Hand Picked Hotels' approach to guest experience. Think about how you can contribute to creating memorable dining experiences. Be ready to share ideas on how to go above and beyond for guests, as this aligns with their commitment to exceptional service.
