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- Tasks: Lead and support the kitchen team in delivering high-end banqueting events.
- Company: Join the prestigious House of Lords and be part of history.
- Benefits: 30 days annual leave, generous pension, and health programme.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic, professional kitchen.
- Why this job: Work in a unique environment and showcase your culinary skills at high-profile events.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous Chef with strong food safety knowledge required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced and motivated Sous Chef - Banqueting to join Catering and Retail Services at the House of Lords. This is a key leadership role within a high-end banqueting operation, supporting the delivery of large-scale, fine-dining events for Peers, distinguished guests, and high-profile functions within one of the UK's most prestigious institutions.
As Sous Chef - Banqueting, you will support the planning, preparation, and execution of formal banquets, receptions, and ceremonial events. You will supervise kitchen operations, lead and develop junior staff, and ensure the highest standards of food quality, presentation, hygiene, and operational efficiency are consistently maintained.
Working onsite at Parliament, the banqueting kitchens support a wide range of high-profile events, from formal dinners to large ceremonial occasions. This is a fast-paced, detail-driven environment where professionalism, leadership, and precision are essential. You will work closely with the Head Banqueting Chef, helping to deliver exceptional hospitality at the very heart of UK democracy.
You'll be accountable to:
- Assist the Head Banqueting Chef in the planning, preparation, and delivery of menus for formal banquets, receptions, and high-profile events.
- Supervise kitchen operations during preparation and service, ensuring consistency, quality, and adherence to event specifications.
- Support dish costings, portion control, and budgetary compliance.
- Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, health & safety, and allergen legislation.
- Oversee the use of computerised food safety systems, including temperature probing, chilling processes, and fridge/freezer monitoring.
- Assist with stock management, ordering, and inventory control using computerised systems.
- Support the training, supervision, and development of junior kitchen staff.
- Promote a positive, professional kitchen culture and support basic HR-related responsibilities.
What we're looking for:
- Proven experience in a Sous Chef or senior kitchen role, ideally within high-end banqueting or fine-dining environments.
- Strong knowledge of food safety, HACCP, and allergen management.
- Experience using computerised stock control and food safety systems.
- Ability to lead teams and maintain high standards during large-scale and high-pressure events.
- Strong communication skills and a professional leadership style.
- Basic understanding of HR processes and a willingness to support people management.
- A recognised culinary qualification (e.g. NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Professional Cookery, or equivalent).
- Flexibility to work early mornings, evenings, and double shifts, in line with event and service requirements.
It would be even better if you had:
- Experience working within a public sector, heritage, or ceremonial institution.
- Knowledge of traditional British cuisine and formal dining protocols.
- Familiarity with sustainable, inclusive, and ethical catering practices.
What you'll get in return:
- 30 days' annual leave, increasing to 35 days after one year's service.
- A generous pension scheme.
- Access to the Parliamentary health and wellbeing programme.
- A truly unique working environment - the opportunity to witness history in the making.
The work we do is vital to the House of Lords, and you will be a pivotal member of the team supporting its parliamentary, ceremonial, and operational functions.
Sous Chef - Banqueting - Westminster, SW1A 0PW employer: House of Lords
Contact Detail:
House of Lords Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef - Banqueting - Westminster, SW1A 0PW
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the culinary world, especially those who have experience in high-end banqueting. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you can, organise a tasting event or a small dinner party showcasing your culinary talents. This not only demonstrates your abilities but also gives you something tangible to discuss during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching the House of Lords and their banqueting operations. Knowing their history and values will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at such a prestigious institution.
We think you need these skills to ace Sous Chef - Banqueting - Westminster, SW1A 0PW
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your previous roles in high-end banqueting or fine dining. We want to see how your experience aligns with the responsibilities of the Sous Chef position, so don’t hold back on those impressive details!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to customise your application for this specific role. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate that you understand what we’re looking for and how you fit into our team at the House of Lords.
Be Professional Yet Personal: While we appreciate professionalism, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. A touch of warmth and authenticity can make your application stand out in a sea of formal submissions.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us quickly and securely, plus you’ll find all the info you need about the role right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at House of Lords
✨Know Your Banqueting Basics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of high-end banqueting and fine dining. Familiarise yourself with the types of events the House of Lords hosts, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs. This shows that you're not just interested in any job, but specifically in this unique role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Sous Chef, you'll be leading a team, so be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully managed kitchen operations in high-pressure environments. Talk about how you've developed junior staff and maintained high standards, as this will demonstrate your capability to thrive in their fast-paced setting.
✨Master Food Safety Knowledge
Since food hygiene and safety are crucial, ensure you can confidently discuss HACCP principles and allergen management. Be ready to explain how you've implemented these practices in previous roles, as this will highlight your commitment to maintaining the highest standards in the kitchen.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills during large-scale events. Think of specific instances where you've had to adapt quickly or resolve issues under pressure. This will help you illustrate your ability to handle the demands of the role effectively.