Lead Kitchen Sous Chef – Growth & Mentorship

Wagamama; Croydon; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Up to £1,000 annual bonus

Biweekly pay + tips share

50% off for friends and family

Free meals on shift

Wagestream earned pay access

Maternity/paternity pay: 26 weeks full

Job summary

Wagamama is seeking a Sous Chef to lead and support the kitchen team, ensuring every dish is prepared to order with passion and consistency. You will manage shifts, uphold food safety, and drive a culture of growth and teamwork in a fast-paced environment.

You will work closely with management to maintain high standards, coach staff on the line, and continually look for small improvements to keep the kitchen efficient and energetic.

Qualifications

• Experience in leading a kitchen team and managing shifts
• Ability to train and develop staff while maintaining high standards
• Experience with food safety standards and gross profit awareness

Responsibilities

• Working closely with the management team to run a vibrant, high-performing kitchen
• Leading the kitchen with pride, ensuring dishes are fresh, bold, and full of flavour
• Helping the team feel seen, supported, and proud of their work
• Nurturing the team to grow and hit targets while fostering improvement
• Applying Kaizen mindset to spot and implement small improvements

Skills

Team leadership

Shift planning

Coaching

Kaizen mindset

Food safety

Job description

Wagamama is seeking a Sous Chef to lead and support the kitchen team, ensuring every dish is prepared to order with passion and consistency. You will manage shifts, uphold food safety, and drive a culture of growth and teamwork in a fast-paced environment.

You will work closely with management to maintain high standards, coach staff on the line, and continually look for small improvements to keep the kitchen efficient and energetic.