At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create delicious British gastro-pub dishes.
- Company: The Lighterman, a vibrant venue in Granary Square with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy staff meals, discounts, extra holiday, and a uniform you can keep!
- Other info: Collaborate closely with chefs and front-of-house for a seamless dining experience.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and make your mark in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in 2 Rosette-level kitchens and a love for seasonal cooking.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Situated in the heart of vibrant Granary Square, The Lighterman is a busy three-floor venue combining a modern pub, dining room, and canal-side terrace. Our kitchen is full of energy, working as a close-knit, experienced team to deliver high-quality, fresh food at volume. We’re looking for an experienced Senior Sous Chef 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
Senior Sous Chef employer: Open House London
The Lighterman, located in the vibrant Granary Square, is an excellent employer for those seeking a dynamic and supportive kitchen environment. With a focus on high-quality British gastro-pub cuisine, we offer our team opportunities for growth, input into menu development, and a culture that values collaboration and excellence. Enjoy perks such as staff meals, dining discounts, and extra holiday days, all while being part of a close-knit team dedicated to delivering exceptional service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Sous Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get chatting with fellow chefs and industry folks at events or online. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a Senior Sous Chef role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills in person! If you can, ask to do a trial shift or a cooking demo. It’s a great way to showcase your passion for British gastro-pub cuisine and let your culinary talents shine.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere—focus on places that match your vibe! Check out our website for openings at The Lighterman and other venues where you can thrive in a supportive kitchen culture.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your classical techniques and menu ideas. Be ready to discuss how you lead a team under pressure and keep things running smoothly, just like you would in the kitchen!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Sous Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:When writing your application, let your love for British gastro-pub cuisine shine through. Share specific examples of dishes you've created or enjoyed, and how they reflect your culinary style. We want to see that you’re not just a chef, but someone who truly cares about the food they serve.
Highlight Your Leadership Skills:As a Senior Sous Chef, you'll be leading the team in the Head Chef's absence. Make sure to mention any previous leadership roles you've had, and how you’ve successfully guided and supported your team. We’re looking for someone who can inspire others, so don’t hold back!
Be Organised and Detail-Oriented:In a fast-paced kitchen, organisation is key. Use your application to demonstrate how you keep things running smoothly, whether it’s through menu planning or maintaining high standards of hygiene. We appreciate candidates who pay attention to detail, so share your strategies for staying on top of everything.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s the easiest way for us to review your application and get to know you better. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our vibrant team at The Lighterman!
How to prepare for a job interview at Open House London
✨Know Your Culinary Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of British gastro-pub cuisine and seasonal cooking. Be ready to discuss your experience in 2 Rosette-level kitchens and share specific examples of dishes you've created that showcase your skills and attention to detail.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare to talk about your leadership style and how you support and develop your team. Think of examples where you've successfully led a kitchen in the Head Chef's absence, and be ready to explain how you keep the team calm and focused during busy service times.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
Since you'll be working closely with both the kitchen and front-of-house teams, practice how you would communicate effectively with them. Share examples of how you've ensured smooth service and a great guest experience through collaboration and clear communication.
✨Bring Your Passion
Let your genuine love for cooking shine through during the interview. Talk about what inspires you in the kitchen, your favourite seasonal ingredients, and how you maintain high standards of food presentation and hygiene. This enthusiasm can really set you apart!
