At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen team, ensuring top-notch service and food presentation.
- Company: Join London's biggest independent pub company with a vibrant atmosphere.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, discounts, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy team trips, socials, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a new opening and create amazing dining experiences.
- Qualifications: Experience in busy kitchens and a passion for fresh, seasonal ingredients.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are looking for an outstanding and talented Sous Chef to join our team at the Old Ship, a pub and hotel in the heart of Hackney. The Old Ship delivers old school pub charm with East End cool, offering infamous burgers, notorious rotisserie chicken, and a selection of craft beer, real ale, and cocktails.
Urban Pubs & Bars was founded in 2014 and has expanded to over 67 pubs, bars, and restaurants across London. Our ethos focuses on acquiring the best sites and recruiting exceptional talent who are passionate about food and drink. We invest time and attention in our teams to ensure they operate successfully within their local communities.
This amazing opportunity is ideal for someone who loves working with fresh premium and seasonal products, preferably with experience in gastro pubs. You should enjoy working in a busy kitchen, understand and deliver perfect service, lead the kitchen team to success, and be excited by innovation and change.
You Are:
- Able to take responsibility for our kitchen team in the absence of the Head Chef to ensure service, safety, and security expectations are met to the highest standards.
- Passionate about training our team to ensure they have the knowledge needed to excite our customers and deliver outstanding food.
- Able to work with the Head Chef to train and uphold the agreed standards.
- Able to assist the General Manager and Head Chef in identifying potential opportunities and products to maximise sales and enhance the customer experience.
- Able to prepare and present all our food dishes to an outstanding standard of presentation.
- Able to support the Head Chef in the development, implementation, and review of the menu to maximise sales in line with the pub vision and business plan.
What's in it for me:
- Competitive salary + bonus.
- Be part of a brand new opening.
- Training and development.
- Career progression and promotion opportunities.
- Discounts across all our pubs, bars, and restaurants.
- Team trips, regular incentives, and socials – a fun, family atmosphere.
- Meals during your shift.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for support during tough times.
- Referral scheme where you can earn up to £1000 per successful referral.
- Birthday off on us.
- Cycle to work scheme.
Interested in hearing more? Get in touch so we can schedule a show around, rub some shoulders together, have a laugh, and make some magic!
Sous Chef in London employer: The Old ship
Urban Pubs & Bars is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates creativity and teamwork in the heart of Hackney. As part of London's largest independent pub company, you will enjoy competitive salaries, career progression opportunities, and a supportive environment that values your contributions. With regular team incentives, discounts across all venues, and a commitment to employee well-being, joining us as a Sous Chef means being part of a dynamic family dedicated to delivering outstanding food and service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef in London
✨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 The Old ship. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Old ship
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Old ship 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 London
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 The Old ship 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 The Old ship
✨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!