At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen, support the Head Chef, and ensure high standards of food and service.
- Company: The Lighterman, a vibrant gastro-pub with a supportive team culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, staff meals, discounts, and extra holiday days for service.
- Other info: Enjoy a positive kitchen culture with opportunities for menu input and team celebrations.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and showcase your culinary skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in 2 Rosette-level kitchens and a love for British cuisine.
The predicted salary is between 53000 - 55000 £ per year.
We’re looking for an experienced Senior Sous Chef at The Lighterman to become a trusted right hand to the Head Chef and confidently run the kitchen when they are away. This is a key role in a fast‑paced and supportive kitchen where standards matter just as much as our team. We’re looking for someone calm, organised, and reliable under pressure, someone who naturally leads by example and helps bring the best out of those around them.
You’ll have strong experience in 2 Rosette‑level kitchens and a genuine love for well‑executed British gastro‑pub food, cooked from scratch with care and attention to detail. You’ll be confident with classical techniques and take pride in consistency, flavour, and presentation. You’ll work closely with the Head Chef and Executive Chef on menus, development, and planning, and be comfortable adapting quickly while keeping the team focused, positive, and supported during service.
We’re looking for someone who understands how to balance leadership, knowing when to guide, support, correct, and encourage, and who enjoys being part of a team that works closely together to deliver great service. You’ll also work hand in hand with the front‑of‑house team to make sure service runs smoothly and guests have a consistently great experience from start to finish.
The Ideal Candidate Will:
- Have strong experience in 2 Rosette‑level kitchens.
- Be confident running a kitchen in the Head Chef’s absence.
- Have a real passion for British gastro‑pub cuisine and seasonal cooking.
- Be calm, organised, and steady under pressure.
- Enjoy leading, supporting, and developing a large team.
- Take pride in high standards of food, presentation, and hygiene.
- Work closely with senior chefs on menu development and ideas.
- Communicate well with front of house for smooth, joined‑up service.
- Lead by example and contribute to a positive, supportive kitchen culture.
Perks & Benefits:
- A friendly, energetic, and supportive kitchen team.
- Input into menus and regular tastings.
- Everything made fresh from scratch using quality seasonal produce.
- Hands‑on, approachable ownership that understands kitchen life.
- Staff meals & refreshments during shifts.
- Group dining discounts across venues.
- Team incentives and celebrations.
- Staff referral scheme.
- Stream access for early wage withdrawals.
- Extra holiday day for each year of service (up to 5 years).
- Uniform provided and yours to keep after 6 months, including shoes.
Job Details
- Experience: Required
- Employment: Full‑time
- Salary: £53,000 – £55,000 yearly
- Benefits: Including service charge
Senior Sous Chef employer: Open House London Limited
At The Lighterman, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and supportive kitchen environment where your culinary skills can truly shine. With a focus on British gastro-pub cuisine and a commitment to using quality seasonal produce, we provide ample opportunities for professional growth and creativity, alongside a range of benefits including staff meals, dining discounts, and extra holiday days for long service. Join our friendly team and enjoy a workplace culture that values collaboration, leadership, and the art of cooking from scratch.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Sous Chef
✨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 Open House London Limited. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Open House London Limited
Don't be shy about reaching out to Open House London Limited 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
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 Open House London Limited 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 Open House London Limited
✨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!
