Chef de Partie - Chapel Road, Brighton and Hove

The Flour Pot Bakery is a renowned artisan bakery committed to producing high-quality baked goods, savoury products and exceptional food. We take pride in our handcrafted products, high standards and passionate team. We are looking for an experienced and enthusiastic Chef de Partie to join our skilled kitchen team at our hub bakery. This is an exciting opportunity for a chef who wants to develop their skills within an artisan bakery environment, taking responsibility for their own section while supporting the wider kitchen operation.

The Chef de Partie will play an important role in the preparation, production and assembly of our savoury range, ensuring that all products are consistently produced to the highest standards. This will include preparing and cooking mise en place, producing sandwich fillings, assembling sandwiches and filled rolls, preparing sausage rolls and other savoury products, and supporting the wider kitchen team where required.

We are looking for someone who leads by example, takes pride in their work and is able to work independently while communicating effectively with the wider team. Early starts and weekend working are part of the role, and you must have your own transport or be able to get to work independently. We are always looking for friendly, enthusiastic and approachable individuals to join our fantastic team. People who take pride in what they do, care about quality and contribute positively to the team and the wider Flour Pot Bakery.

Key Responsibilities and Tasks

• Take responsibility for the day-to-day running and organisation of your designated kitchen section.
• Prepare, cook and assemble products in line with Flour Pot Bakery recipes, specifications and production plans.
• Prepare and cook mise en place for sandwiches, savoury products and other bakery items.
• Assemble sandwiches and filled rolls using the relevant Cybake production reports.
• Ensure all products are produced consistently, accurately and to the required quality standards.
• Pack filled sandwiches and other products into ice-lined thermos boxes for our shops, ensuring packing sheets are followed exactly.
• Prepare and assemble next-day products, including filled croissants, sausage rolls and other savoury items.
• Check production requirements and ensure sufficient quantities are prepared for the day's service and following day's production.
• Communicate effectively with the Kitchen Manager, Bakery Manager and wider bakery team regarding production requirements, stock levels or any issues affecting service.
• Ensure your section is fully prepared and organised for production.
• Maintain excellent standards of food presentation, portion control and product consistency.
• Ensure stations are cleared and cleaned thoroughly between assembly and preparation jobs.
• Comply with the Flour Pot Bakery Food Safety Management System at all times.
• Ensure all food is stored correctly and that all items in fridges and freezers are labelled appropriately.
• Ensure stock is rotated correctly using appropriate stock rotation procedures.
• Monitor stock levels and report shortages or potential shortages to management in good time.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and organisation throughout the kitchen.
• Complete end-of-shift cleaning and close-down duties, including tables, underneath tables, counters, fridge and freezer doors, ovens and other relevant equipment.
• Support and assist other areas of the kitchen when required.
• Follow all health and safety, food safety and company procedures.
• Lead by example, maintaining high standards of professionalism, attitude and work ethic at all times.

Experience Required

• Previous experience working in a professional kitchen environment.
• Experience working as a Commis Chef, Demi Chef de Partie or Chef de Partie would be beneficial.
• A good understanding of food preparation, cooking techniques and kitchen operations.
• Experience working to recipes and production specifications.
• Experience working in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• An understanding of food safety and hygiene requirements.
• A genuine interest in food and a desire to develop within an artisan food business.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• Good knowledge of kitchen operations and the requirements of a Chef de Partie role.
• Ability to take ownership of a section and work independently.
• Ability to organise workload effectively and prioritise tasks according to production requirements.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to consistently high standards.
• Ability to follow recipes, production sheets and specifications accurately.
• Good understanding of food safety, hygiene and allergen procedures.
• Positive and effective communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a wider kitchen and bakery team.
• A willingness to learn, develop and take on additional responsibilities.
• Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure.
• Flexible attitude towards working hours and willingness to assist across all areas of the operation when required.

Personal Qualities

• Highest levels of personal hygiene and presentation at all times.
• Hard-working, reliable and self-motivated.
• Takes pride in producing high-quality food.
• Well organised, punctual and dependable.
• Positive attitude and willingness to support others.
• Honest, friendly and approachable.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Able to work well under pressure and maintain high standards.
• Proactive approach to identifying and resolving problems.
• A genuine passion for food, quality and working as part of a team.