Lead Sous Chef — Bonus, Overtime & Clear Progression

Loungers plc; Southampton; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary + bonus

Overtime pay

Free meal on every shift

50% discount on food and drinks from;

Staff progression programmes

Loungefest staff events

Job summary

Loungers plc is seeking a skilled Sous Chef for Maritimo Lounge, a local café bar. You’ll lead shifts, support the Head Chef and ensure every plate meets our high standards while nurturing a positive, inclusive kitchen culture.

This full-time role offers a 48-hour contract (40-hour option), overtime pay, a bonus scheme, paid overtime and real progression opportunities across the Loungers group. Benefits include a free meal on every shift and staff discounts from day one.

Qualifications

• A passionate cook who takes real pride in fresh ingredients, clean specs, and food that goes out right every single time.
• Someone the team can count on — you show up, you're on time, and you give it everything when you're there.
• Leads by example in the kitchen — setting the standard on the pass, supporting the team, and never cutting corners.
• Confident taking ownership of a shift in the Head Chef's absence, from prep and par to stock management and shift handovers.
• A team player who helps coach and develop the chefs around them and genuinely wants to see them improve.

Responsibilities

• Lead kitchen shifts with confidence, keeping service smooth, organised and on spec from prep through to the final plate
• Be the Head Chef’s right hand — supporting day-to-day operations, stepping up in their absence, and helping the kitchen deliver consistently strong results
• Set the tone for high standards on the pass, with a sharp eye for food quality, pace, cleanliness, hygiene and safety
• Take ownership of key kitchen routines including prep and par, stock control, waste, orders and effective shift handovers
• Coach and support the team around you, helping new and existing chefs build confidence, grow their skills and deliver great food every shift

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Pride in quality

Punctuality / reliability

Job description

Loungers plc is seeking a skilled Sous Chef for Maritimo Lounge, a local café bar. You’ll lead shifts, support the Head Chef and ensure every plate meets our high standards while nurturing a positive, inclusive kitchen culture.

This full-time role offers a 48-hour contract (40-hour option), overtime pay, a bonus scheme, paid overtime and real progression opportunities across the Loungers group. Benefits include a free meal on every shift and staff discounts from day one.