Senior Sous Chef – (One of Sussex’s Best)
This is a unique opportunity to lead one of Sussex’s most highly regarded independent restaurants. If you are ready to bring your creativity, leadership & culinary expertise to The Oak Barn, we would like to hear from you!
Apply today & join a restaurant where passion meets excellence
Benefits of working for us:
- Tips & bonuses (weekly paid, average + £6,000 annually*)
- Work‑life balance: 2.5 days off weekly & 9.15pm* finish times
- 4.5 days over 7* (mix of splits & straights)
- 3 evenings off a week*
- 45-50 hours a week*
- Working Hours*: 9.15am – 3.30pm – Break – 5.30pm – 9.15pm
- Flexible shifts with lifestyle‑friendly hours
- Family‑run & supportive atmosphere with a hardworking & passionate, "work hard … play hard" culture
- Experienced chef team
About Us
The Oak Barn Restaurant is a family‑run, independent & top‑rated 150‑cover Restaurant & Bar in Mid Sussex. We pride ourselves on creating Rosette‑standard modern British cuisine, combining timeless classics with contemporary flair. Our menus are seasonal, locally sourced & freshly prepared to order, with daily specials & catering for weddings, buffets & large group bookings.
The Role
We are seeking a dynamic, passionate & proven Senior Sous Chef to take the culinary reins of our busy kitchen alongside our Head Chef. This is a hands‑on leadership role where you will inspire, mentor & co‑manage a brigade of 9 chefs, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, creativity & consistency.
Food Service Times
- Monday – Saturday: 12pm – 3pm & 6pm – 9pm
- Sunday: 12pm – 7pm
- Out of the kitchen by approx. 9.15pm weekdays, 7.30pm Sundays*
Responsibilities
- Oversee the daily running of the kitchen brigade (9 chefs + KP’s)
- Lead, inspire & mentor the team with confidence
- Create & develop seasonal menus & daily specialsEfficiently plan & coordinate events, weddings & buffets
- Prepare, cook & present fresh food to Rosette standard
- Manage ordering, stock control, GP awareness & cost control
- Uphold Health & Safety & Hygiene regulations
- Collaborate effectively with the Front of House team
- Ensure cleanliness, organisation & high standards across the kitchen
The Ideal Candidate
- Solid & proven Sous Chef experience in restaurants or gastro pubs
- Strong background in high‑quality & fresh‑produce kitchens
- Creative flair with seasonal produce & menu innovation
- Thrives under pressure in a fast‑paced environment
- Excellent leadership, communication & mentoring skills
- Committed, consistent & detail‑oriented work approach
- Strong understanding of GP, budgeting & food waste control
- Own transport essential
- No accommodation provided – UK‑based applicants only
*On rare occasions, such as specific days or weeks of the year, or when necessary, work hours, shift coverage, pay & schedules may change.
