Global Japanese Sous Chef — Lead & Innovate

gategroup; Wembley; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

gategroup is seeking a Specialty Sous Chef focused on authentic Japanese cuisine. You will lead a skilled kitchen team, shape exceptional menus, and drive culinary innovation across our operation.

Reporting to the Head Chef, you’ll ensure top-quality plates and a consistent dining experience that travels globally. Ideal candidates bring leadership, HACCP knowledge, and a track record in premium or high-volume environments.

Qualifications

• Experience as Sous Chef or Head Chef in a Japanese cuisine setting.
• Background in 5-star premium dining or high-volume operation.
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop a diverse kitchen team.
• Strong knowledge of HACCP and global food safety standards.
• Familiarity with modern kitchen systems and recipe management tools.
• Culinary qualification; extra leadership or sustainability training is a bonus.
• Fluent in Japanese language.

Responsibilities

• Create standout dishes and cutting-edge menus blending tradition with innovation.
• Lead specialty food production ensuring quality, consistency, culinary brilliance.
• Own the menu presentation experience, inspiring clients with creativity.
• Guide and uplift kitchen teams, leading when Head Chef is away.
• Champion excellence in food safety and compliance to global standards.
• Boost operational performance, maximise yield and minimise waste.
• Drive innovation across global culinary initiatives and development.

Skills

Japanese cuisine

Leadership

Food safety

Menu development

High-volume ops

Tools

Recipe management tools

Job description

gategroup is seeking a Specialty Sous Chef focused on authentic Japanese cuisine. You will lead a skilled kitchen team, shape exceptional menus, and drive culinary innovation across our operation.

Reporting to the Head Chef, you’ll ensure top-quality plates and a consistent dining experience that travels globally. Ideal candidates bring leadership, HACCP knowledge, and a track record in premium or high-volume environments.