At a Glance
- Tasks: Help manage kitchen operations and lead a passionate team to deliver outstanding service.
- Company: KIBOU, an independent Japanese restaurant with a vibrant and fun atmosphere.
- Benefits: Employee discounts, free meals, wellness support, and tailored training opportunities.
- Other info: Recognised as one of the Top 30 Best Places to Work in Hospitality 2025.
- Why this job: Join a growing family of restaurants and bring your creative ideas to life.
- Qualifications: Experience in kitchen management and a passion for delivering quality food.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 35000 £ per year.
KIBOU is an independent Japanese restaurant and bar with locations in Battersea, Cheltenham, Bristol, Solihull, Oxford and Cambridge. We create opulent, vibrant and fun environments, focusing on growing a team that takes pride in delivering a standout experience for all our guests.
Our kitchens offer a diverse menu showcasing a variety of Japanese cuisine, all handmade or hand-rolled fresh daily. Our stringent sourcing policy ensures we use only the freshest, best quality and most authentic ingredients, providing a premium dining experience with each visit. Each KIBOU has a dedicated sushi kitchen offering an extensive selection of handmade-to-order sushi and sashimi.
Your day-to-day role will involve managing the kitchen operations and the team, with motivation and commitment to deliver outstanding service. You will support the Head Chef in leading the kitchen team to create a fun, authentic and original dining experience that aligns with our core values.
We are looking for incredible individuals to join us on this journey, helping to grow our family of restaurants while delivering exceptional food and service. Being part of a small growing business, you’ll have the opportunity to get involved with menu development, bringing your own ideas to the table.
At KIBOU, we value our people and prioritise team wellbeing. Experience, qualifications and skills we need include:
- Experience in Japanese cuisine preferred but not essential
- Ability to recruit, train and develop effective and passionate teams
- Track record of delivering sales growth through consistent food quality and service
- Effective labour cost management
- Track record of delivering budgeted food margins
- Flare for creative and authentic menu development
- Experience in running large teams of chefs
- Ensure legal compliance and health & safety are managed as required
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 one of the Top 30 Best Places to Work in Hospitality 2025, by The Caterer
Sous Chef in Oxford employer: KIBOU Restaurants Ltd
KIBOU is an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing of its team while fostering a vibrant and fun work culture. With opportunities for personal growth, creative input in menu development, and a commitment to operational autonomy, employees can thrive in a supportive environment that values their contributions. Enjoy benefits such as employee discounts, free meals, and a wellness programme, all while being part of a recognised top workplace in hospitality.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know KIBOU! Research the restaurant's vibe, menu, and values. This way, when you walk in for your interview, you can show off your knowledge and passion for Japanese cuisine, making you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they're about.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former KIBOU staff on social media or at industry events. They can give you insider tips on the interview process and what it’s really like to work there, plus it shows your genuine interest in joining their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Bring your creativity to the table! Think about how you can contribute to menu development or improve kitchen operations. Share your ideas during the interview to demonstrate your commitment to enhancing the KIBOU experience and your flair for authentic cuisine.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the KIBOU family. Don’t forget to follow up after applying; a little persistence can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Sous Chef in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Japanese Cuisine:When you're writing your application, let us know why you love Japanese food! Share any experiences you've had with it, whether it's cooking, dining out, or even just enjoying it at home. We want to see that spark in your words!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:At KIBOU, we’re all about teamwork! Make sure to mention any past experiences where you’ve successfully worked with a team, especially in a kitchen environment. We want to know how you can contribute to our vibrant and fun atmosphere.
Be Creative with Your Ideas:We love fresh ideas, so don’t hold back! If you have thoughts on menu development or ways to enhance the dining experience, share them in your application. Show us how you can bring your unique flair to our kitchens!
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us directly, apply through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we see your amazing skills and passion for joining the KIBOU family. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at KIBOU Restaurants Ltd
✨Know Your Japanese Cuisine
Brush up on your knowledge of Japanese cuisine before the interview. Familiarise yourself with key ingredients, cooking techniques, and popular dishes. This will not only show your passion for the role but also help you engage in meaningful conversations about menu development.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Sous Chef, you'll be expected to manage a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, focusing on training, motivation, and conflict resolution. Highlighting your ability to create a positive kitchen environment will resonate well with KIBOU's values.
✨Demonstrate Your Creativity
KIBOU values innovative ideas for menu development. Come prepared with a few creative dish concepts or improvements you could bring to the table. This shows that you're not just looking to follow orders but are eager to contribute to the restaurant's growth.
✨Emphasise Team Wellbeing
Since KIBOU places a strong emphasis on team wellbeing, be ready to discuss how you prioritise the mental and physical health of your team. Share any initiatives you've implemented in previous roles that fostered a supportive work environment.
