At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant kitchen team and create stunning sushi dishes.
- Company: Yo! Sushi, a fun and innovative dining experience with 30+ UK locations.
- Benefits: Free food, professional qualifications, wellness support, and discounts on dining and entertainment.
- Other info: Enjoy career growth opportunities and a chance to win a trip to Japan!
- Why this job: Join a fast-paced environment where your passion for food makes a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in a busy kitchen and a love for Japanese cuisine.
The predicted salary is between 28500 - 30000 £ per year.
At Yo! Sushi, we serve up fresh food, fast‑paced energy, and a dining experience like no other. Think iconic conveyor belts, bold Japanese flavours, and a team that brings the vibe every single day. With 30+ restaurants across the UK since 1997, we’re a brand that’s built on innovation, quality, and great people. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a catch‑up with friends, we create memorable experiences for every guest—and it all starts with our teams. If you’re passionate, energetic, and ready to thrive in a busy environment, you’ll fit right in. Join us and be part of something fast, fun, and full of flavour. Love food. Lead the kitchen. Feel the energy.
We’re looking for a passionate, people‑focused Sous Chef who loves being in the thick of it and takes real pride in great food.
About You
- Calm, Confident, and Food‑Focused.
- You genuinely love food and enjoy working with people just as much as cooking.
- You set the tone on shift and help the team feel supported, confident, and ready for service.
- You are:
- Passionate about food, especially sushi and Japanese‑inspired dishes
- A calm, confident leader who keeps things steady when it gets busy
- Detail‑focused, with pride in consistently great food
- Positive, approachable, and great to work with
- Hands‑on and always ready to jump in and help
- Comfortable in a lively, fast‑paced kitchen environment
- Keen to learn, develop, and support others to grow
Key Responsibilities
As Sous Chef, you’ll be right at the centre of the action—supporting the Head Chef, guiding the team, and helping everything run smoothly. It’s a role where energy matters, teamwork matters, and your presence makes a real difference. You’ll help bring consistency, structure, and good vibes to a busy, creative kitchen. You’ll be:
- Leading and supporting the kitchen team during service
- Helping ensure every dish is fresh, consistent, and beautifully presented
- Keeping service flowing through clear communication and teamwork
- Working closely with the Head Chef on day‑to‑day kitchen operations
- Supporting and developing the team on shift
- Maintaining high standards across food quality, safety, and cleanliness
- Being a steady, supportive presence during busy services
We're proud to offer:
- Fantastic working hours
- Free YO! food – Every time you work you can power your shift with a selection of your choice from our menu
- Grow with Yo! – We will pay for you to achieve professional qualifications (up to Degree level) whilst you work
- Brilliant support services designed to enhance your physical, mental and financial wellbeing, including a private medical health plan and 24/7 Employee Assistance Line
- Discounted gym membership, cinema tickets, dining out and retail offers are all available through our reward platform
- 50% off your food every time you dine with us for you and 3 friends
- Award‑winning sustainability initiatives – We’re committed to delivering progress against 9 UN sustainability goals, including 100% of all salmon sourced from certified sustainable sources
- 1/3rd of our restaurant menu is plant‑led and we are proud members of the Global Tuna Alliance
- Free trip to Japan – our Annual Awards ceremony celebrates your success with winners awarded a trip to Japan
- Job security – Joining an award‑winning, globally expanding business gives you the opportunity to grow your career alongside us
Sous Chef in Exeter employer: Pankufood
At Yo! Sushi, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values passion, teamwork, and personal growth. With a vibrant work culture that thrives on energy and creativity, our Sous Chefs enjoy fantastic benefits including free meals, professional development opportunities, and a commitment to employee wellbeing. Join us in a fast-paced environment where your culinary skills can shine, and be part of a brand dedicated to sustainability and memorable dining experiences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef in Exeter
✨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 Pankufood. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Pankufood
Don't be shy about reaching out to Pankufood 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 Sous Chef in Exeter
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 Pankufood 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 Pankufood
✨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!
