At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create exceptional dishes with fresh ingredients.
- Company: Join the award-winning Harbour Hotels, known for luxury and exceptional hospitality.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, bonuses, discounts, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team that values talent and creativity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced kitchen while developing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Minimum two years as Junior Sous Chef or Sous Chef with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Are you a passionate and ambitious Senior Sous Chef ready to take the next step in your culinary career?
We have an exciting opportunity for a talented and experienced
Senior Sous Chef to join our kitchen team at Harbour Hotels.
We are looking for a confident, creative and hands-on chef who thrives in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen and takes pride in delivering exceptional dishes using fresh, quality ingredients.
Working closely with the Head Chef, you will play a key role in the day-to-day operation of the kitchen, leading and inspiring the team while maintaining the highest standards of food quality, consistency and presentation.
- Your Key Responsibilities
- Support the Head Chef in overseeing the daily kitchen operations, ensuring a smooth and efficient service.
- Lead, motivate and develop the kitchen team, creating a positive and collaborative working environment.
- Take full responsibility for running the kitchen in the Head Chef's absence.
- Maintain exceptional standards of food preparation, presentation and consistency.
- Monitor and manage food costs, stock control and wastage to achieve agreed financial targets.
- Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, health and safety legislation, including kitchen risk assessments.
- Assist with menu development, bringing creativity, fresh ideas and a passion for quality ingredients.
- Support the training and development of junior chefs, helping to build a strong and motivated team.
What We're Looking For
- A minimum of two years' experience at Junior Sous Chef or Sous Chef level, ideally within a high-volume, quality-focused restaurant or hotel.
- Strong leadership skills and the confidence to manage a busy kitchen independently.
- A genuine passion for fresh food, quality ingredients and delivering exceptional dining experiences.
- Sound knowledge of food cost management and achieving FCOS targets.
- A thorough understanding of current food hygiene and health and safety regulations.
- Excellent organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to perform under pressure.
- A proactive, positive attitude and a genuine enthusiasm for developing yourself and those around you.
What's in It for You?
At Harbour Hotels, we believe great hospitality starts with great people.
We are committed to recognizing talent, investing in our teams and providing opportunities to develop rewarding, long-term careers.
- As Part Of Our Crew, You'll Enjoy
- Competitive salary reflecting your skills and experience.
- Bonus scheme
- Parking on site
- Stylish, specially designed Harbour Hotels uniform.
- Complimentary meals whilst on duty.
- Excellent career progression opportunities across the Harbour Hotels Group.
- Bespoke career development pathways tailored to your ambitions.
- Ongoing training and development, with opportunities for internal promotion across our collection of properties.
- Exclusive hotels stay and food & beverage discounts across the Harbour Hotels Group.
- Access to an exciting employee benefits platform, offering a variety of discounts and rewards.
- Employee Assistance Programme, providing additional support for your wellbeing.
- Complimentary meals whilst on duty.
Who We Are – Harbour Hotels
Harbour Hotels is an award-winning collection of luxury hotels set in some of the most beautiful coastal, countryside and city destinations across the South of England.
Our portfolio combines distinctive properties, exceptional dining experiences, exciting restaurant concepts and our signature Har SPA facilities, creating memorable experiences for our guests.
- Recognised as
- AA Hotel Group of the Year in 2018
, Harbour Hotels continues to build on its reputation for exceptional hospitality, quality and individuality.
We are passionate about our people and believe in creating an environment where talent is recognised, ideas are valued and careers can flourish.
Ready to Join Our Crew?
If you have the passion, leadership skills and culinary expertise to make a real difference, we would love to hear from you!
Take the next step in your culinary career and become part of the Harbour Hotels family.
Please note that only candidates who have the legal right to work in the UK or hold a valid UK work permit/visa will be considered for this position.
Senior Sous Chef employer: Harbour Hotels Group
Harbour Hotels is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and enjoyable working environment where your passion for hospitality can truly shine. With excellent progression opportunities, bespoke career pathways, and unique on-the-job training, you will be supported in your professional growth while enjoying competitive salaries and exclusive discounts across our luxury hotel portfolio. Join us in creating memorable experiences in some of the most beautiful locations in the South.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior 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 Harbour Hotels Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Harbour Hotels Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Harbour Hotels Group 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
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 Harbour Hotels Group 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 Harbour Hotels Group
✨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!
