At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist the Head Chef in managing kitchen operations and delivering exceptional dining experiences.
- Company: KIBOU, a vibrant independent Japanese restaurant group with a fun atmosphere.
- Benefits: Personalised training, employee discounts, free meals, and wellness support.
- Other info: Recognised as one of the Top 30 Best Places to Work in Hospitality 2025.
- Why this job: Join a growing team and bring your creativity to menu development while enjoying a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in high-volume kitchens preferred, but passion and willingness to learn are key.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
KIBOU is an independent Japanese restaurant and bar with locations in Battersea, Cheltenham, Bristol, Solihull, Oxford, and Cambridge. We offer an extensive menu showcasing a variety of Japanese cuisine, served from a Sushi and Hot Food kitchen. The environments we create are stylish and fun, and our primary focus is on growing a team of people who take pride in delivering a truly standout experience.
We offer excellent training in a supportive environment, and there are great opportunities for progression within a dynamic and growing business. Your role as Junior Sous Chef will be to work closely with the Head Chef to help manage the day-to-day running of kitchen operations and the team, with motivation and commitment to deliver outstanding service.
To support the kitchen team to create a fun, authentic and original dining experience that will support our core values. At KIBOU, we are looking for incredible individuals to come on a journey with us, helping to grow our small family of restaurants whilst delivering exceptional food and service to all of our guests. Being part of a small growing business, you’d also have opportunities in menu development, specials menus, bringing your own ideas to the table and helping us grow our offering.
Experience in a high-volume kitchen is preferred; however, we provide comprehensive training, and we will consider candidates with limited Junior Sous Chef experience as long as you are keen to learn. If you’ve spent some time in kitchen management roles, we’d love to hear from you! A friendly personality and ability to support a strong and highly motivated team are essential.
KIBOU is a considerate and respectful employer, and we place team wellbeing at the heart of our operation. We love our people and are thrilled to be growing our team!
Why work with us:
- A business with our people at its core, valuing individuals as much as the team
- A restaurant-led organisation that champions operational autonomy and the freedom to thrive, with opportunities to shape how the business evolves and grows.
- Personalised training programmes and development opportunities tailored to you
- 100% equal and transparent service charge policy
- Japanese culture & cuisine 101. Get to know Japanese food!
- Regular socials, including the annual KIBOU awards show and summer party
- Employee discounts when you dine in any of our restaurants
- Free meals cooked by your chefs, or generously discounted menu items on shift
- Professional confidential support with the wellness programme, Licensed Trade Charity
- Financial well-being with Hastee
- Enhanced Pension provision through Salary Exchange
- Recognised as being one of the Top 30 Best Places to Work in Hospitality 2025, by The Caterer
Junior Sous Chef in Birmingham employer: KIBOU Restaurants Ltd
KIBOU is an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing of its team while fostering a vibrant and supportive work culture. As a Junior Sous Chef, you will benefit from personalised training programmes, opportunities for career progression, and the chance to contribute creatively to menu development in a stylish and fun environment. With a commitment to employee satisfaction and recognition as one of the Top 30 Best Places to Work in Hospitality 2025, KIBOU offers a rewarding experience for those passionate about Japanese cuisine and hospitality.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Sous Chef in Birmingham
✨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 KIBOU Restaurants Ltd. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to KIBOU Restaurants Ltd
Don't be shy about reaching out to KIBOU Restaurants Ltd 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 Junior Sous Chef in Birmingham
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 KIBOU Restaurants Ltd 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 KIBOU Restaurants Ltd
✨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!
