Lead Kitchen Sous Chef – Develop Talent, Boost Quality

Mercure Milton Keynes; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully funded apprenticeships

Discounts on hotel stays and major-ret

Gym, pools and leisure facilities

Wellbeing, financial and legal support

Job summary

Kew Green Hotels is seeking a driven Sous Chef to support a high-quality, efficient kitchen at Mercure Milton Keynes. You will lead the team, maintain standards and ensure every dish enhances guest experience.

Reporting to the Head Chef, you will help plan menus, drive quality and control costs while delivering great hospitality. A strong leadership mindset and hands-on approach are essential.

Qualifications

• Experience at Sous Chef or strong Chef de Partie level in a fast-paced kitchen.
• Solid understanding of produce and ingredients, and ability to influence profit margins.
• Good understanding of kitchen operations, food safety and compliance standards.
• Strong leadership potential with ability to coach, motivate and influence others.
• Proactive, hands-on approach and willingness to step up when needed.
• Commercial awareness with cost control and waste reduction.
• Ability to perform under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Positive, can-do attitude and desire to progress your career.

Responsibilities

• Step into a leadership role in the absence of the Head Chef.
• Work with Head Chef on menu planning and implementation to drive quality and guest appeal.
• Ensure all food is prepared, presented and served to brand standards and meets food safety requirements.
• Train and coach the team, developing skills and creating a range of specials.
• Monitor portion and waste control as well as labour productivity to maintain profit margins.
• Support stocktakes, ordering and stock control to minimise waste and support profitability.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, organisation and compliance across the kitchen.
• Contribute ideas to improve kitchen performance and guest experience.

Skills

Leadership

Team coaching

Cost control

Food safety

Communication

Teamwork

Pressure management

Job description

Kew Green Hotels is seeking a driven Sous Chef to support a high-quality, efficient kitchen at Mercure Milton Keynes. You will lead the team, maintain standards and ensure every dish enhances guest experience.

Reporting to the Head Chef, you will help plan menus, drive quality and control costs while delivering great hospitality. A strong leadership mindset and hands-on approach are essential.