At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare high-quality meals in a vibrant kitchen environment and support daily operations.
- Company: Join Thomas Franks, a fresh food catering business with a passion for excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, discounts, and excellent career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Access to training, social events, and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: No late nights, work in beautiful surroundings, and be part of exciting school events.
- Qualifications: Experience in food preparation and a passion for service are preferred.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 40000 £ per year.
This role is based within a small group of two schools supporting the world’s leading centre for classical ballet training. Located in Richmond, the site caters for approximately 215 covers daily at the main house, delivering breakfast and supper service seven days a week. The role also includes involvement in large‑scale hospitality functions and occasional support for holiday lets. Due to the unique location of the site, having access to your own transport would be highly beneficial.
We are currently seeking a talented Sous Chef to join our team at one of our prestigious locations in Richmond. This is a hands‑on role within a professional kitchen, supporting the delivery of high‑quality food service across all meal periods, ensuring consistent standards and smooth daily operations.
What Makes This Role Attractive
- Set in beautiful park surroundings
- Free transport provided from Richmond station to the school
- Discounts available for selected London theatres and the Royal Opera House
- Opportunity to be involved in school events and functions
- Consistent cooking for under 200 covers in a well‑structured environment
- Overtime available
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare all food service areas in readiness for daily meal service
- Ensure timely and high‑quality service of all meals in line with company and client standards
- Prepare, set up, serve, clear, clean and store all food, beverage and equipment required for service
- Produce all food from scratch following company hygiene, safety, and presentation standards
- Restock and replenish food and consumables during service to maintain smooth operations
- Communicate with Front of House regarding stock levels, delays, and service updates
- Complete all cleaning and hygiene duties to maintain excellent kitchen standards
- Support the preparation and placement of orders as required
- Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety and Food Safety regulations at all times
- Maintain a clean and organised kitchen at the end of each shift
- Attend meetings and training sessions as required
- Support stock control and inform Head Chef of stock movements and requirements
- Provide support and cover for colleagues when required
General Responsibilities
- Adhere to all company policies, procedures, and legal requirements at all times
- Maintain high standards of personal presentation, hygiene, and uniform
- Complete all necessary temperature and food safety checks
- Report hazards or concerns promptly to the Head Chef or Location Manager
- Be flexible and willing to support wider team needs as required
- Assist with reasonable requests from management
Key Skills & Attributes
- Strong team player with excellent communication skills
- Ability to work independently and use initiative
- Reliable, honest, and customer‑focused attitude
- Passion for food, service, and continuous learning
- Flexible approach to working in a busy kitchen environment
- Ability to safely manage moderate lifting, carrying, and manual handling tasks
- Food Hygiene Certificate preferred
Knowledge & Competencies
- Good spoken English
- Good reading and written English skills
- Previous experience in a food preparation or busy kitchen environment is desirable
Benefits
- Access to the Wider Wallet discount scheme, offering savings at major retailers, restaurants, gyms and more
- Free meals on duty
- Volunteer leave – up to one paid day per year to support a charity or cause of your choice
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Refer a Friend bonus scheme
- Outstanding training and development opportunities tailored to your career progression
- Well‑established apprenticeship programme
- Regular team and company social events
- Access to an Employee Assistance Programme for wellbeing support
- Company workplace pension scheme
- Excellent and genuine career progression opportunities within a leading independent contract caterer
About Us
Thomas Franks is a founder‑led, fresh food catering business with a focus on excellence and service delivered with individuality, passion and style. We are unique in every approach and our clients, and our people are paramount to our daily success.
Diversity and Inclusion at Thomas Franks
We actively encourage applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds and continue to develop a culture of growth and inclusion and would like to invite applications from groups who are currently under‑represented, because we believe greater diversity leads to exceptional results and provides a better working life.
SOUS CHEF | No Late Nights in London employer: Thomas Franks Ltd
At Thomas Franks, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values individuality and passion. Located in the picturesque surroundings of Richmond, our team enjoys unique benefits such as free transport from the station, discounts at renowned London theatres, and opportunities for professional growth through tailored training and development programmes. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that not only serves high-quality food but also actively supports community events and initiatives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SOUS CHEF | No Late Nights in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the kitchen vibe! If you can, visit the place before your interview. Chat with the team, soak up the atmosphere, and show them you're genuinely interested in being part of their culinary family.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Bring a portfolio of your best dishes or even a few photos from previous gigs. This is your chance to visually impress them with your culinary creations and passion for food.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to talk teamwork! As a Sous Chef, you'll be working closely with others. Share examples of how you've collaborated in the past and how you handle kitchen chaos like a pro.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, shoot them a quick thank-you email. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace SOUS CHEF | No Late Nights in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:When writing your application, let us see your love for food and cooking shine through! Share any experiences or moments that sparked your passion for the culinary arts, especially in a busy kitchen environment.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Sous Chef. Mention specific responsibilities from the job description that you’re excited about and how you can contribute to our team.
Keep It Professional Yet Personal:While we want to see your personality, it’s important to maintain a professional tone. Use clear language and avoid slang, but don’t be afraid to let your unique voice come through in your writing!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s super easy and ensures your application goes straight to us, so we can review it promptly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thomas Franks Ltd
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the menu and the types of dishes you might be preparing. Research the company’s approach to food and service, especially their focus on fresh ingredients and high-quality standards. This will show your passion for food and help you discuss how you can contribute to their culinary vision.
✨Show Off Your Team Spirit
As a Sous Chef, teamwork is crucial. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in a kitchen environment. Highlight your communication skills and how you handle challenges with colleagues. This will demonstrate that you’re not just a great cook, but also a fantastic team player.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about food safety, hygiene practices, and how you manage kitchen operations. Brush up on your knowledge of Health & Safety regulations and be prepared to discuss how you maintain cleanliness and organisation in a busy kitchen. This will show that you take these responsibilities seriously.
✨Bring Your Passion to the Table
Let your enthusiasm for cooking and service shine through during the interview. Share stories about your culinary journey, what inspires you, and why you love working in a kitchen. This personal touch can make a lasting impression and help you connect with the interviewers on a deeper level.
