Lead Sous Chef: Drive Service, Develop Talent & Menus

The NICI Lymington; South Baddesley; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Meals on duty

Staff discounts

Training & development

Career progression

Job summary

The NICI Collection is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to join our growing hospitality group across the UK. You will lead the kitchen team, drive daily service, develop menus and recipes, and work closely with the Head Chef to maintain high standards across the collection.

We value hands-on leadership, team development, and a proactive approach to food safety, cost control and guest experience. Competitive salary with service charge and staff benefits.

Qualifications

• Experience at Sous Chef or Junior Sous Chef level.
• Experience supervising and developing a kitchen team.
• Strong practical cooking skills and a genuine passion for food.
• Ability to maintain high standards during busy services.
• Good knowledge of food safety, hygiene and allergen requirements.
• Experience with stock control and kitchen cost management.
• Strong communication and organisational skills.
• The confidence to make decisions and take ownership when required.
• A positive attitude and willingness to support your team.

Responsibilities

• Take an active role in running the kitchen during service.
• Lead and motivate the brigade when the senior chef is not present.
• Organise the team and allocate tasks to ensure each service is properly prepared.
• Monitor dishes leaving the kitchen to ensure consistency, quality and presentation.
• Work alongside chefs on preparation and service when required.
• Help develop and maintain menus and recipes.
• Monitor stock levels and support ordering and receiving deliveries.
• Keep an eye on food costs, portion sizes and waste.
• Ensure kitchen areas are clean, organised and ready for service.
• Coach junior chefs and help develop their technical skills.
• Support recruitment and training within the kitchen team.
• Deal confidently with issues that arise during service.
• Ensure food safety, allergen and health and safety procedures are followed.
• Work closely with the wider Food & Beverage team to ensure a seamless guest experience.
• Support the Head Chef with the overall management and development of the kitchen.

Skills

Leadership

Kitchen supervision

Food safety

Stock control

Communication

Job description

The NICI Collection is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to join our growing hospitality group across the UK. You will lead the kitchen team, drive daily service, develop menus and recipes, and work closely with the Head Chef to maintain high standards across the collection.

We value hands-on leadership, team development, and a proactive approach to food safety, cost control and guest experience. Competitive salary with service charge and staff benefits.