Sous Chef

Company Description

Silchester Farm is a luxurious countryside venue set on acres of beautiful scenery, offering elegant English charm and a welcoming, homely atmosphere. The farm provides a distinctive setting for events, blending rustic character with high-quality service and facilities. Guests experience a relaxed yet refined environment, making it an attractive destination for weddings, celebrations, and special occasions. Team members work within a close-knit, service-focused environment where attention to detail and genuine hospitality are highly valued.

Role Description

This is a full-time, on-site Sous Chef role based at Silchester Farm in Silchester. The Sous Chef supports the Head Chef in planning and preparing high-quality menus for weddings, events, and farm-based dining experiences. Day-to-day responsibilities include overseeing food preparation, ensuring consistent presentation and taste, managing stock and kitchen organization, and maintaining food safety and hygiene standards. The Sous Chef helps train and guide kitchen team members, coordinates with front-of-house staff during service, and contributes to menu development using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients where possible. The role involves working flexibly around event schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Qualifications

• Strong culinary skills, including experience in event or banquet-style service and working with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
• Experience in kitchen leadership or supervisory roles, with the ability to support, train, and motivate a diverse team.
• Thorough understanding of food safety, hygiene regulations, and best practices in a professional kitchen environment.
• Excellent organization, time management, and attention to detail, especially during high-volume service periods.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with kitchen and front-of-house teams, and communicate clearly under pressure.
• Prior experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Chef de Partie in hotels, event venues, or restaurants is highly beneficial.
• Relevant culinary qualifications or professional training are preferred but equivalent practical experience is valued.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, and reliable transportation to Silchester Farm.