At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen team to create exceptional fine-dining experiences with seasonal ingredients.
- Company: Luxury hotel offering a unique farm-to-fork dining experience.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, wellness perks, discounts, and up to 30 days annual leave.
- Why this job: Inspire the next generation of chefs in a beautiful, dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Junior Sous Chef in fine-dining; strong leadership and communication skills.
- Other info: Join a fun team with regular engagement activities and excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 38000 - 42000 £ per year.
Up to £42,000 per annum plus tronc and fantastic benefits. 45 hours per week across 5 days. Regular weekends and evenings. Due to the location of the Estate a driving licence is recommended for this role.
Lead from the pass. Champion exceptional food. Inspire the next generation of chefs.
As Sous Chef within The Botanical Rooms, you will work closely with the Head Chef and alongside another Sous Chef to deliver an outstanding fine-dining experience rooted in seasonality, sustainability and farm-to-fork principles. This is a hands-on leadership role where you’ll help drive kitchen operations, uphold exceptional food quality and presentation, and play a key part in mentoring and developing a talented brigade. You’ll be calm under pressure, passionate about ingredients, and committed to delivering unforgettable guest experiences every service.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the Head Chef in all aspects of kitchen and business operations
- Ensure the smooth and efficient day-to-day running of the kitchen
- Maintain the highest standards of food quality, presentation and consistency
- Assist with staffing control, rota planning and team productivity
- Train, mentor and support junior and senior kitchen team members
- Manage ordering, stock control and cost efficiency
- Maintain strict standards of food safety, hygiene, HACCP and workplace safety
- Support menu development, launches and daily kitchen reporting
What we can offer
- Base salary of £38,000 + OTE up to £42,000
- A positive workplace environment with opportunities to develop both personally and professionally.
- Employee Life Cover, providing your nominated loved one with 2x your salary.
- Support from our Employee Assistance Programme, including unlimited 24/7 remote GP appointments for you and your family.
- Complimentary access to our Spa and swimming pools and our exclusive benefit of 50% off Spa Treatments.
- Complimentary use of our gym and wellbeing classes.
- Access to our Cycle to Work scheme, supporting wellbeing and sustainable commuting.
- Complimentary staff meal each shift – crafted by our dedicated kitchen team, often featuring fresh produce from our estate.
- 30% discount for all our colleagues and free delivery for any online purchases.
- Complimentary garden membership for The Newt and our partner gardens, including the Eden Project, Kew Gardens and The Lost Gardens of Heligan.
- Recognition through our colleague recognition programme – Newt Awards, with the opportunity to achieve amazing rewards, including a complimentary Hotel Stay.
- Discounted hotel stays for staff, accompanied by a 30% discount at our restaurants.
- Regular team engagement activities, including Fun Squad events.
- Up to 30 days annual leave each year for our full-time team.
What we’re looking for
- Proven experience at Junior Sous Chef level or above within a fine-dining or luxury environment
- Confident, approachable leadership style
- Ability to remain calm and decisive in a fast-paced kitchen
- Strong communication and organisational skills
- Excellent attention to detail and consistency
- Passion for seasonal, ingredient-led cooking
- Knowledge of food safety, hygiene and kitchen compliance
Where you’ll be working
A contemporary take on British fine-dining, we offer a true farm to fork experience in a beautifully designed, atmospheric 60 cover restaurant. All food is prepared in our kitchen with ingredients fresh from our gardens or locally sourced, ensuring quality and seasonality. Our talented chefs ensure each ingredient is elevated to its highest potential - creating an unforgettable experience. Open for breakfast through to dinner, we offer cream tea in the library and early evening cocktails on the terrace.
Who are we – The Newt in Somerset
Nestled within an expanse of rolling fields and steeped in ancient history, our luxury country estate stands as a haven of refined elegance, inviting guests to explore acres of captivating gardens, meandering pathways, and enriching exhibitions - accessible 364 days a year for our members. Our hotel extends a warm welcome, offering a home-away-from-home experience where impeccable service flourishes in an ambiance of unassuming sophistication.
Sous Chef - Luxury Hotel in Castle Cary employer: The Newt in Somerset
Contact Detail:
The Newt in Somerset Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef - Luxury Hotel in Castle Cary
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get chatting with chefs and industry folks at events or online. You never know who might have the inside scoop on that perfect Sous Chef role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills in person! If you can, ask for a trial shift or a kitchen demo. It’s a great way to showcase your talent and get a feel for the team and vibe.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on places that match your passion for seasonal and sustainable cooking. Tailor your approach to show how you fit into their ethos.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep an eye on our website for openings! We’re always looking for passionate chefs who want to be part of something special. Plus, it’s the best way to stay updated on new opportunities.
We think you need these skills to ace Sous Chef - Luxury Hotel in Castle Cary
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food: When writing your application, let your love for cooking and ingredients shine through. Share specific examples of how you've championed exceptional food in your previous roles – we want to see that fire in your belly!
Highlight Leadership Skills: As a Sous Chef, you'll be leading a team, so make sure to emphasise your leadership experience. Talk about how you've mentored others and maintained high standards in the kitchen – we’re all about inspiring the next generation of chefs!
Be Detail-Oriented: Attention to detail is key in fine dining. In your application, mention how you ensure consistency and quality in your dishes. We appreciate candidates who understand the importance of presentation and food safety.
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. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Newt in Somerset
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with seasonal ingredients and local suppliers. Be ready to discuss how you would incorporate these into the menu, showcasing your passion for farm-to-fork principles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a kitchen team in the past. Highlight your approachability and ability to mentor junior chefs, as this role requires strong leadership skills.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
Expect questions about handling high-pressure situations. Share specific instances where you maintained composure during busy service times and how you ensured food quality remained top-notch.
✨Emphasise Food Safety Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss your understanding of food safety, hygiene, and HACCP standards. This is crucial for maintaining the high standards expected in a luxury dining environment.