At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate kitchen team and create seasonal menus at a top-rated restaurant.
- Company: The Oak Barn, a family-run independent restaurant in Mid Sussex.
- Benefits: Up to £50K package, tips, flexible shifts, and work-life balance.
- Other info: Dynamic atmosphere with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a vibrant culinary team and showcase your creativity in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Proven Sous Chef experience and a flair for high-quality, fresh produce.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 40000 £ per year.
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!
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*
- Flexible shifts with lifestyle‑friendly hours
- Family-run & supportive atmosphere with a hardworking & passionate, “work hard … play hard” culture
- Experienced chef team
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.
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 specials
- Efficiently plan & coordinate events, weddings & buffets
- Prepare, cook & present fresh food to Rosette standard
- Manage ordering, stock control, GP awareness & cost control
- Organise rotas, recipe manuals & training guides
- 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.
Senior Sous Chef - Fresh Food employer: Only Chefs Ltd
The Oak Barn Restaurant is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and supportive family-run environment in Mid Sussex, where culinary passion meets excellence. With a strong focus on work-life balance, including flexible shifts and generous time off, employees enjoy a culture that values hard work and creativity, alongside competitive benefits such as tips and bonuses. Join our dedicated team of chefs and take advantage of opportunities for personal and professional growth in one of Sussex's top independent dining establishments.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Sous Chef - Fresh Food
✨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 Only Chefs Ltd. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Only Chefs Ltd
Don't be shy about reaching out to Only Chefs Ltd 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 Senior Sous Chef - Fresh Food
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 Only Chefs Ltd 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 Only Chefs Ltd
✨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!
