At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen, support the Head Chef, and mentor junior chefs in a vibrant coastal inn.
- Company: The Lifeboat Inn, a beloved coastal property with a rich history and loyal clientele.
- Benefits: Opportunities for growth, skill development, and being part of a supportive team.
- Other info: Be part of a tight-knit team in a respected property with excellent career progression.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and create exceptional dishes in a quality-driven environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous Chef or strong CDP ready to step up, with a passion for fresh food.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
If you know the North Norfolk coast, you probably know The Lifeboat. It’s one of those places people talk about — full of history, warmth and a loyal mix of locals and long‑standing visitors. With its established reputation and a kitchen focused on quality, seasonality and consistency, The Lifeboat is an inspiring place to grow your craft.
We’re looking for a Sous Chef who can support the Head Chef in leading the kitchen day to day — someone with skill, calmness and the confidence to take charge when needed. You’ll help shape the food offering, maintain high standards and support a team proud of what they deliver. If you’re the kind of chef who enjoys being part of a respected coastal property with plenty of opportunity to develop, this could be a great fit.
What the Role’s All About...
As Sous Chef, you’ll play a key role in the running of the kitchen — supporting the Head Chef, guiding junior members of the team, and ensuring every plate reflects the hospitality The Lifeboat is known for. You’ll:
- Support the Head Chef in menu execution, prep and service
- Run the kitchen in the Head Chef’s absence with confidence and composure
- Help deliver a consistent, well‑executed food offering
- Maintain excellent food safety, hygiene and kitchen standards
- Be involved in stock management, ordering and waste control
- Train, support and mentor junior chefs
- Work closely with the wider management team to ensure smooth service
- Bring ideas, enthusiasm and reliability to a busy, quality‑led kitchen
About You...
You’re a hands‑on chef with a steady, organised approach and a genuine passion for producing good food. You work well in a team, you stay calm under pressure, and you take pride in delivering a reliable, consistent service. You’ll bring:
- Experience as a Sous Chef or a strong CDP ready to step up
- A solid understanding of prep, service and kitchen operations
- A passion for fresh, seasonal food
- Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset
- A focus on standards, organisation and consistency
- A desire to grow within a supportive and quality‑driven property
Why Join Chestnut?
Chestnut is a collection of premium properties and inns across East Anglia, each with its own identity. The Lifeboat is one of our most recognisable coastal properties — loved by locals, trusted by visitors and full of opportunity for people who enjoy being part of a tight‑knit team. You’ll be supported by an experienced leadership team, given room to grow, and part of a business that invests in people, skill development and progression.
Senior Sous Chef in Norfolk employer: Le Strange Arms
At The Lifeboat Inn, we pride ourselves on being a premier employer in the heart of North Norfolk, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates quality and creativity in the kitchen. As a Senior Sous Chef, you'll not only have the opportunity to refine your culinary skills but also benefit from a supportive leadership team dedicated to your professional growth and development. Join us in a respected coastal property where your contributions are valued, and enjoy the camaraderie of a tight-knit team committed to delivering exceptional dining experiences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Sous Chef in Norfolk
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow chefs, local foodies, and industry contacts. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you can, organise a tasting event or pop-up dinner to showcase your culinary talents. This not only gets your name out there but also gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their kitchen.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to appear. Reach out directly to places you admire, like The Lifeboat Inn, and express your interest. A personal touch can make all the difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep your online presence sharp! Update your social media profiles with your latest culinary creations and experiences. Employers often check these out, so let them see your passion and expertise shine through!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Sous Chef in Norfolk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:When you're writing your application, let your love for fresh, seasonal food shine through. Share any experiences that highlight your culinary journey and how they align with our focus on quality and consistency.
Highlight Your Team Spirit:We’re all about collaboration here at The Lifeboat. Make sure to mention your experience working in a team and how you’ve supported others in the kitchen. It’s all about that calmness and confidence we need!
Be Specific About Your Skills:Don’t just say you’re a great chef; show us! Detail your experience as a Sous Chef or a strong CDP ready to step up. Talk about your understanding of kitchen operations and how you maintain high standards.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to see your application and get to know you better. Plus, it shows you’re keen to be part of our team at The Lifeboat!
How to prepare for a job interview at Le Strange Arms
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with the current menu at The Lifeboat Inn. Understand the ingredients, preparation methods, and presentation styles. This will not only show your passion for the role but also allow you to discuss how you can contribute to menu execution and innovation.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Sous Chef, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and mentor junior chefs. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully guided a team or handled kitchen operations under pressure. This will highlight your calmness and confidence in a busy environment.
✨Emphasise Your Passion for Fresh Ingredients
The Lifeboat Inn values quality and seasonality, so be ready to discuss your approach to sourcing fresh ingredients. Share any experiences you have with local suppliers or seasonal menus, as this will resonate well with their focus on delivering exceptional food.
✨Prepare Questions About Team Dynamics
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with questions about the kitchen culture and team dynamics. Ask about how they support each other during busy service or how they handle training and development. This shows your interest in being part of a collaborative environment.
