At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead kitchen operations and create exceptional dining experiences for guests.
- Company: Hoar Cross Hall, a premier Spa and Hotel destination in the UK.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, free meals, spa access, and discounts on stays.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and develop your culinary career in a stunning environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous Chef or strong CDP ready for the next step.
The predicted salary is between 35512 - 35512 £ per year.
Hoar Cross Hall is one of the UK’s premier Spa and Hotel destinations, home to award-winning experiences, exceptional dining, and a proud heritage of warm hospitality. We are looking for an experienced and passionate Sous Chef to join our talented culinary team and help us deliver outstanding dining experiences for our guests. If you are driven, creative, and thrive in a high-quality kitchen environment, this is an exciting opportunity to develop your career within Barons Eden.
About the Role
As Sous Chef at Hoar Cross Hall, you will take a leading role in supporting the daily operations of the kitchen. Working closely with the Head Chef, you will help manage the team, maintain exceptional food standards, and ensure the smooth, efficient running of all kitchen activities. In the Head Chef’s absence, you will confidently step up to take full responsibility for the kitchen.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership & Kitchen Management
- Supporting and deputising for the Head Chef in daily kitchen operations.
- Providing leadership, motivating the kitchen team, and maintaining a positive and professional working environment.
- Supervising, training, and developing kitchen staff, ensuring high standards of performance.
- Assisting with rota planning, ensuring the kitchen is appropriately staffed to meet business demands.
- Food Quality & Menu Development
- Ensuring all dishes served across the restaurant and buffet areas meet Hoar Cross Hall’s high standards.
- Maintaining excellent presentation, consistency, and quality in every dish.
- Contributing ideas for monthly menus and supporting the design and development of dishes using the freshest ingredients.
- Working alongside the Head Chef to minimise waste and ensure cost-effective food production.
- Stock Control & Supplier Coordination
- Maintaining strong relationships with suppliers, ensuring quality and value for money.
- Overseeing ordering and stock levels, especially in the Head Chef’s absence.
- Ensuring goods received meet required standards and returning any substandard produce.
- Assisting with monthly stock-takes and weekly time sheets.
- Health, Safety & Compliance
- Ensuring full compliance with Food Hygiene, Health & Safety, and COSHH requirements.
- Promoting high standards of cleanliness through structured cleaning schedules.
- Ensuring all kitchen staff follow uniform, hygiene, and PPE guidelines.
- Completing daily food and fridge temperature checks.
- Following Fire and Evacuation procedures and taking appropriate action when required.
- Communication & Guest Service
- Maintaining strong communication with the Head Chef, Restaurant Manager, and wider senior team through daily briefs and weekly meetings.
- Handling guest feedback and complaints professionally in the Head Chef’s absence.
What We’re Looking For
- Experience as a Sous Chef or strong CDP ready for the next step.
- Passion for fresh, seasonal ingredients and creative menu development.
- Excellent leadership skills, with the ability to inspire and guide a team.
- Excellent organisation, time management, and attention to detail.
- Proactive, positive attitude with the ability to perform under pressure.
- Solid understanding of food safety, hygiene, and compliance standards.
Shift Patterns
Full-Time - 45 hours per week, 5 days out of 7 per week – this includes weekends, holidays, and evenings. Typical shift patterns: 08:00 – 17:30hrs and 13:30 – 23:00hrs.
Salary: £35,512.26 per annum. Note: Full flexibility is key as you will be expected to work as and when necessary to meet the needs of the team and the business.
Why Join Us
- Work in a stunning, historic estate with a commitment to excellence in hospitality.
- Competitive Rate of Pay.
- Complimentary use of the leisure and spa facilities.
- Free meal per shift from our staff canteen.
- Complimentary Spa Day at Eden Hall on work anniversaries.
- Employee Benefits Program.
- Free Parking.
- Refer-a-Friend scheme.
- Discount on overnight stays and spa days.
- 30% discount on food and drink.
- Excellent Induction and training programme.
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
Sous Chef in Burton upon Trent employer: Hiddenwell
Hoar Cross Hall is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture within one of the UK's premier spa and hotel destinations. As a Sous Chef, you will benefit from competitive pay, complimentary use of leisure facilities, and opportunities for professional development in a stunning historic estate. Join our passionate culinary team and enjoy a supportive environment that values creativity and excellence in hospitality.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef in Burton upon Trent
✨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 Hiddenwell. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Hiddenwell
Don't be shy about reaching out to Hiddenwell 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 in Burton upon Trent
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 Hiddenwell 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 Hiddenwell
✨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!
