At a Glance
- Tasks: Create exceptional meals that enhance athlete performance and support recovery.
- Company: Join Sunderland Football Club, a leader in elite sports nutrition.
- Benefits: Work with top athletes, travel with the team, and enjoy professional growth.
- Other info: Opportunity to develop your skills in an elite sporting environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on player performance through high-quality, tailored nutrition.
- Qualifications: Professional culinary qualification and experience in fast-paced environments required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
About the Performance and Medicine Team
Our mission is to support every athlete in reaching peak performance while reducing injury risk. Through a multi-disciplinary approach that blends sports science, nutrition, medicine, and psychology, we deliver personalized programs tailored to each player’s needs. We work closely with coaches to balance training loads, guide recovery, and provide insights into player readiness. Mental wellness is also a key focus, with sports psychologists helping athletes build resilience under pressure.
The Opportunity
Sunderland Football Club is seeking an ambitious and talented Performance Senior Sous Chef to help deliver an elite catering and nutrition programme for our first‑team players. Working alongside the Performance Executive Head Chef, Performance Head Chef and Head of Nutrition, you will create exceptional, performance‑focused meals that support training, recovery and matchday preparation. This is a unique opportunity for a chef with a passion for high‑quality food and sports nutrition to make a direct impact on player performance. You will develop innovative menus, tailor meals to individual dietary needs, maintain the highest standards of food safety and service, and play a key role in leading, coordinating and developing the performance catering team.
Responsibilities include:
- Supervising Assistant Performance Chefs
- Conducting performance reviews
- Managing responsibilities in the absence of the Performance Head Chef
- Supporting the ongoing development of team members through training and best practice
- Contributing to budget management through the effective purchasing of ingredients and equipment
Traveling with the first team on domestic and international fixtures offers a unique opportunity to be at the heart of elite football operations.
What We Ask For
The successful candidate will be a highly motivated and experienced chef with a recognised professional culinary qualification (NVQ Level 3 or equivalent) and a proven track record of delivering exceptional standards in a fast‑paced, quality‑driven environment. A strong commitment to continuous professional development is essential, with evidence of maintaining and enhancing professional knowledge and skills. Food Safety Level 3 and IOSH (or equivalent food safety/health and safety training) are desirable. The successful applicant will also be required to obtain an Enhanced DBS check through Sunderland AFC.
If you thrive under pressure, are passionate about high‑performance catering, and aspire to work within an elite sporting environment, this is an outstanding opportunity to join Sunderland Football Club.
Performance Senior Sous Chef employer: Sunderland AFC
Sunderland Football Club is an exceptional employer for those passionate about high-performance catering and sports nutrition. With a commitment to employee growth, you will have the opportunity to develop innovative menus and lead a dedicated team while working closely with elite athletes. The club fosters a collaborative work culture that values continuous professional development and offers unique experiences, including travel with the first team on domestic and international fixtures.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Performance 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 Sunderland AFC. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Sunderland AFC
Don't be shy about reaching out to Sunderland AFC 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 Performance 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 Sunderland AFC 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 Sunderland AFC
✨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!
