At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious, healthy meals for students and maintain a clean kitchen.
- Company: Join a leading catering company dedicated to enriching young minds through food.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, flexible hours, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with support for all applicants.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while pursuing your passion for food.
- Qualifications: Passion for food, customer service skills, and kitchen experience required.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Sous Chef - Ashford, Kent
We're a specialist catering company dedicated to providing delicious, healthy and exciting food for Independent Schools.
We know the crucial role that food can play on a pupil's ability to learn, develop and ultimately flourish.
Food isn't simply fuel, it's critical to creating happy, healthy and inquisitive young minds.
Lexington is committed to safeguarding children and colleagues.
Candidates that are shortlisted for this role, will be required to have an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, including Children's Barred List.
What you'll be doing...
As a Sous Chef you will have plenty of responsibility and opportunity to grow in your role, becoming a critical member of our team.
We will give you responsibility for ensuring the food is to the highest standard, the kitchen area is always clean and well presented, and well-stocked.
- Ensure the food is to the highest standard
- Ensure the kitchen and service area are always clean, well-presented, and well-stocked
- Keep up to date with menus and what food is on offer
- Offer a warm and friendly service
- Ensure COSHH, Food Safety, and Health & Safety are followed
- Working Pattern: 5 days out of 7, weekend included
What can you bring?
- Possess a passion for food
- Focused on the front line
- Genuine interest in customer service excellence
- Team player
- Previous experience of working in a kitchen
Brilliant Work Deserves Brilliant Perks!
At Elior, we believe that when you love where you work, it shows.
That's why we make sure our team feels appreciated, supported, and set up for success!
Here's what's waiting for you
- Free, tasty meals - Enjoy tasty, nutritious food on us while you work!
- Flexible working - including part time roles, because life doesn't run on a 9-5 schedule.
- Plenty of Time to Unwind - Flexibility around family life with holidays that match the school calendar.
- Leave for life's important moments - whether family, personal or unexpected.
- Give back time - paid volunteering days for the causes you care about.
- Room to grow - career development and learning opportunities for all stages of your career.
- Wellbeing first - mental health support and wellbeing perks.
- Financial security - pension schemes and life assurance.
- Exclusive discounts - save on entertainment, leisure, and even travel!
One small thing - we welcome you to apply using the name you feel most comfortable with! No need for legal names at this stage.
Why You'll Love Working Here
We're a people-first business with over 10,000 colleagues across the UK, serving everything from stadiums to hospitals, schools to workplaces.
Our mission?
To enrich lives everywhere, every day.
And here's the best part - 87% of our team say they're proud to work here! Why? Because we create a place where you're listened to, trusted, supported, and valued.
Not sure you match every single requirement?
Apply anyway!
Research shows that many people - especially women and those from underrepresented backgrounds - hold back unless they meet 100% of the criteria.
But we hire for potential, not just experience.
If you're passionate and ready to grow, we want to hear from you!
We Celebrate You!
At Elior, diversity and inclusion aren't just policies, they're who we are.
We know that different perspectives make us stronger, and we're dedicated to creating an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered to succeed.
Need any support or adjustments during the application process? Just let us know - we're happy to help!
Ready to join us? Hit 'Apply Now' and let's chat!
Sous Chef - Ashford, Kent employer: Lexington-Catering
Lexington is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and growth of its team members, offering a vibrant work culture where employees feel valued and inspired. With flexible working arrangements, generous holiday allowances, and a commitment to career development, Lexington ensures that its General Managers can thrive both personally and professionally while delivering outstanding service in a dynamic law firm environment. Enjoy free meals, mental health support, and exclusive discounts, making every day at work rewarding and fulfilling.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef - Ashford, Kent
✨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 Lexington-Catering. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Lexington-Catering
Don't be shy about reaching out to Lexington-Catering 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 - Ashford, Kent
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 Lexington-Catering 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 Lexington-Catering
✨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!
