Junior Sous Chef in Teddington

We are looking for an enthusiastic, motivated, reliable Junior Sous Chef.

About us: Part of Iconic Hotels & Resorts, The Lensbury is located on the Banks of the River Thames at Teddington and is home to an exclusive leisure club, a 155 bedroom hotel, meeting and events space, restaurant and bar, Spa and 25 acres of gardens and grounds.

The Role: The Junior Sous Chef supports the senior kitchen managers in the efficient, professional and safe operation of the kitchen. The role focuses on delivering consistently high-quality food, maintaining excellent hygiene and safety standards, and supporting the development and performance of the kitchen team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Take an active role in the day-to-day management of the kitchen, leading sections during preparation and service, and ensuring standards are delivered consistently under pressure.
• Ensure food preparation, presentation and service consistently meet company, brand and food safety standards.
• Take accountability for the quality, consistency and presentation of all food leaving the kitchen.
• Drive consistent delivery of food standards in line with brand and food safety requirements.
• Support the implementation of menus, recipes and specifications, ensuring portion control and minimal waste.
• Ensure high standards of cleanliness, organisation and hygiene are maintained across the kitchen operation.
• Manage stock, supporting effective cost control and minimal waste and take ownership of accurate stock handling, rotation and portion control within your area.
• Participate in stocktakes and take prompt action to resolve discrepancies.
• Ensure all purchasing is within budget and company guidelines.
• Contribute to achieving departmental food GP targets.
• Act as a role model in the kitchen, demonstrating professionalism, teamwork, and a strong work ethic.
• Ensure staffing levels are in line with departmental rotas, adjusting to meet business requirements.
• Assist in training, mentoring, and developing junior team members, fostering a positive and productive working environment.
• Address minor performance issues and provide constructive feedback to support team development, liaising with HR where required.
• Assist management with employee job chats, probation reviews and performance discussions when required, providing feedback and support.
• Build positive and effective working relationships with front-of-house and wider operational teams.
• Identify and report maintenance, safety or operational issues promptly.

Health, Safety & Food Hygiene:

• Ensure compliance with all food safety, health & safety, COSHH and company policies.
• Maintain excellent personal hygiene and ensure correct uniform standards are followed both personally and by your team.
• Adhere to the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 and all internal safety procedures.
• Support food hygiene training compliance and safe systems of work.
• Follow company emergency, accident and fire procedures at all times.

What we're looking for:

To be successful in this role, you must possess the following qualifications, attitude, behaviours, skills, and values:

Essential:

• Proven experience in a professional kitchen environment at Chef de Partie or equivalent level.
• Strong understanding of food hygiene, health & safety and kitchen best practice.
• Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure.
• High standards of organisation, attention to detail and consistency.
• Passion for food quality, service excellence and continuous improvement.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Flexible approach to working hours, including evenings, weekends and events.

Desirable:

• Level 3 Food Safety Certificate (or willingness to obtain).
• Experience in hotel, high-volume or banqueting environments.
• Desire to progress to a Sous Chef role.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Staff Discounts at The Lensbury and across some Iconic Hotels & Resorts properties.
• Use of some leisure facilities, including gym & swimming pool.
• EAP with 24/7 helpline for you and your family.
• Benefits portal with Hospitality Rewards, offering discounts across major brands.
• Staff Awards and Social events throughout the year.
• Free meals whilst on duty.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Free parking.
• Refer a Friend programme.
• Paid annual leave of 28 days including public holidays.
• Access to professional development and training.
• A vibrant, supportive team culture in a stunning riverside location.