At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Head Chef in delivering exceptional culinary experiences in a high-energy kitchen.
- Company: Join the Meliá family, a global leader in hospitality with over 350 hotels.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hotel discounts, generous service charge, and 28 days holiday.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse and inclusive culture that values collaboration and innovation.
- Why this job: Elevate your culinary career while inspiring a passionate kitchen team.
- Qualifications: 3 years' experience in a high-volume kitchen and strong culinary knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 32000 £ per year.
Joining Meliá is to embark on a journey without borders, where your potential to grow, lead and inspire has no limits. It’s knowing that the world is yours — that you can elevate your career across countless destinations, all while being part of one warm, supportive, and passionate family.
Department: Kitchen / Culinary
Location: STK London – ME London Hotel, The Strand
Reports to: Head Chef
Package: £32,000 per annum + Tronc (£8,000–£10,000 per annum)
What’s in it for you?
- Global career opportunities across more than 350 hotels worldwide
- Hotel discounts for you, your friends & family with Meliá Hotels Worldwide
- Generous service charge (Tronc)
- Company pension scheme
- Loyalty rewards & refer-a-friend bonus (£500 after successful probation)
- 28 days’ holiday including public holidays
- Health cash plan & discounted dental cover with HSF
- Access to Meliá’s global e-learning platform with unlimited online learning
- High-street savings through Perks at Work
- Meals on duty, payday parties, and laundry provided
Mission
As Junior Sous Chef at STK London, you will support the Head Chef in delivering an exceptional culinary experience within a high-energy, high-volume environment. Acting as the Head Chef’s right hand, you will help lead kitchen operations, maintain brand standards, and inspire the brigade to consistently deliver premium dishes and unforgettable guest experiences in line with STK’s modern steakhouse concept.
Key Responsibilities – Operational Excellence
- Execute the Head Chef’s directives to ensure consistency, quality, and brand standards
- Lead daily kitchen operations, including line execution, production, and plating
- Maintain excellent food safety, cleanliness, and full compliance with health & safety regulations
- Conduct line checks, oversee specials, and expedite service during busy periods
- Demonstrate strong Grill/Broiler expertise within a fast-paced service environment
- Collaborate with the Events team to align menus with trends and seasonal offerings
- Inspire, train, and mentor kitchen staff to uphold culinary and service excellence
- Assist with scheduling, purchasing, inventory management, and cost control
- Analyse food and labour costs to drive performance and meet financial targets
What we’re looking for
- Minimum 3 years’ experience in a professional hospitality leadership role within a high-volume kitchen
- Strong culinary knowledge including cooking techniques, sauces, stocks, and product identification
- Proven ability to fabricate meats, fish, and poultry
- Intermediate to advanced knowledge of pastries and Garde Manger
- Confident leadership style with the ability to motivate and develop a kitchen team
- Strong organisational skills with experience in inventory, scheduling, and cost control
- A genuine passion for culinary excellence and exceptional guest experiences
At Meliá, our people are the heart of everything we do. Whether you’re growing your culinary career or stepping into leadership, you’ll be part of a culture built on respect, collaboration, and passion. From emerging talent to experienced professionals, we are all Very Inspiring People — and that includes you.
Our Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive, accessible environment for all. At Meliá, we believe our differences make us stronger and drive innovation, while supporting a responsible and sustainable future. If you want to be a Very Inspiring Person, apply now and start your journey with Meliá.
Junior Sous Chef in London employer: ME London STK
ME London STK is an exceptional employer that values its employees by fostering a supportive work culture and providing ample opportunities for professional growth within the dynamic hospitality sector. With a commitment to employee development and a comprehensive pension scheme, you will thrive in an environment that prioritises both your career advancement and well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Sous Chef in London
✨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 ME London STK. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to ME London STK
Don't be shy about reaching out to ME London STK 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 London
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 ME London STK 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 ME London STK
✨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!
