At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Head Chef and deliver fresh, seasonal food in a vibrant kitchen.
- Company: Join Houston & Hawkes, an award-winning independent caterer with a passion for hospitality.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, free meals, and enhanced leave options.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with ongoing learning and fun social events.
- Why this job: Thrive in a fast-paced environment and develop your culinary career with exciting opportunities.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous Chef or strong Junior Sous Chef with a passion for fresh food.
The predicted salary is between 30150 - 36850 £ per year.
SOUS CHEF – MATERNITY COVER
Bring your passion for fresh food to a vibrant campus environment where no two days are the same.
At Houston & Hawkes, we're looking for a talented Sous Chef to join one of our busiest and most exciting locations.
Based within a lively student campus, you'll work alongside a passionate kitchen team delivering fresh, seasonal food with a strong retail offer, while also supporting hospitality and special events throughout the year.
This is an excellent opportunity for a Sous Chef who enjoys variety, thrives in a fast-paced kitchen and is looking to develop their career with an award-winning independent caterer.
THE ROLE
- Support the Head Chef with the day-to-day running of the kitchen
- Prepare and deliver fresh, seasonal food for a busy retail operation
- Support hospitality and event catering when required
- Lead the kitchen in the Head Chef's absence
- Coach and develop junior chefs
- Maintain the highest standards of food quality, presentation and hygiene
- Assist with ordering, stock control and food cost management
- Work closely with the wider team to deliver an exceptional customer experience
- WHAT YOU'LL BRING
- Previous experience as a Sous Chef or strong Junior Sous Chef
- A passion for fresh food and modern hospitality
- Experience within high-volume retail catering
- Hospitality or fine dining experience is advantageous
- A positive attitude and strong leadership skills
- Pride in delivering consistently high standards
WHY JOIN HOUSTON & HAWKES?
- 5 out of 7 working pattern
- Birthday off every year
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave
- Free meals on duty
- Pension scheme
- Life assurance
- Employee Assistance Programme
- CODE Hospitality membership
- Exclusive masterclasses with award-winning chef Sally Abé
- Foodie Socials
- Ongoing learning, development and genuine career progression
- Summer Awards Party celebrating our people and achievements
- Christmas Party at one of London's outstanding venues
- ABOUT HOUSTON & HAWKES
Houston & Hawkes is an independent, award-winning contract caterer delivering exceptional workplace hospitality.
As a Certified B Corp, recipient of the King's Award for Enterprise and one of The Caterer's Best Places to Work in Hospitality, we're passionate about developing talented people, creating memorable food experiences and building careers that last.
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Sous Chef in City of Westminster employer: Houston & Hawkes
Houston & Hawkes is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee satisfaction and growth, offering a competitive salary and the opportunity to work in a dynamic environment across various sites in Cambridge. With a strong focus on seasonal food and high culinary standards, employees benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages creativity and collaboration, making it a rewarding place for passionate chefs to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef in City of Westminster
✨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 Houston & Hawkes. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Houston & Hawkes
Don't be shy about reaching out to Houston & Hawkes 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 City of Westminster
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 Houston & Hawkes 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 Houston & Hawkes
✨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!
