At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen team and create delicious seasonal dishes.
- Company: Join an award-winning country pub known for quality food and hospitality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, accommodation available, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Supportive environment with a focus on professional development.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team in a beautiful countryside setting.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous Chef or strong Junior Sous Chef ready to step up.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Leicester Arms is looking for an experienced and motivated Sous Chef to join our kitchen team at our beautifully restored country inn in the heart of Penshurst, Kent. Following an extensive refurbishment, The Leicester Arms has established itself as a popular destination for quality seasonal food, relaxed hospitality and memorable countryside stays. We are proud to have been named the 2025 Pub & Bar County Winner for Kent, and Top 100 Pubs Good Food Guide 2026.
We are looking for a talented Sous Chef who shares our commitment to delivering consistently high standards.
The role
Working closely with our Head Chef, you will play an important role in the daily operation of the kitchen. You will help lead the team, maintain excellent food quality and ensure every dish is prepared and presented to the highest standard.
Your Responsibilities Will Include
- Supporting the Head Chef with the day-to-day management of the kitchen
- Leading services and managing the kitchen in the Head Chef’s absence
- Preparing and delivering fresh, seasonal dishes to a consistently high standard
- Helping develop menus, specials and dishes using quality ingredients
- Training, supporting and motivating junior members of the kitchen team
- Managing food preparation, ordering, stock rotation and waste
- Supporting the achievement of food gross profit and labour targets
- Ensuring excellent standards of cleanliness, food safety and allergen management
- Maintaining a calm, organised and professional kitchen environment
About you
- Has previous experience as a Sous Chef or a strong Junior Sous Chef ready to progress
- Is passionate about fresh, seasonal British food
- Has strong leadership and organisational skills
- Can remain calm and focused during busy services
- Takes pride in consistency, presentation and attention to detail
- Understands food safety, allergen procedures and kitchen compliance
- Enjoys training and developing other chefs
- Is reliable, positive and committed to being part of a successful team
What we offer
- A salary of £40,000 per annum
- Accommodation available
- The opportunity to work in an award-winning country pub and inn
- A supportive and ambitious independent hospitality company
- The opportunity to contribute to menu development and kitchen standards
- Genuine opportunities for professional development and career progression
The Leicester Arms is part of the Little & Large Pub Company, an independent collection of characterful pubs focused on excellent food, genuine hospitality and creating memorable experiences for our guests.
Sous Chef - Accommodation available employer: Little & Large Pub Company
The Cricketers on the Green offers an exceptional work environment for chefs, with a strong emphasis on fresh, seasonal dishes and quality ingredients. As part of the Little and Large Pub Company, employees benefit from a supportive and professional kitchen culture, opportunities for training and progression, and the chance to be part of an ambitious independent pub that values genuine hospitality. Located in the heart of Pirbright, this newly reopened pub is not just a workplace but a community where passionate individuals can thrive and grow.
Contact Details:
Little & Large Pub Company Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef - Accommodation available
✨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 Little & Large Pub Company. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Little & Large Pub Company
Don't be shy about reaching out to Little & Large Pub Company 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 - Accommodation available
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 Little & Large Pub Company 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 Little & Large Pub Company
✨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!
