Lead Sous Chef — Kitchen Leadership & Menu Creation

Umami; Tees Valley; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Umami in the Tees Valley is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to join our new kitchen team. You will support the Head Chef in daily operations, uphold high culinary standards, and ensure an exceptional dining experience for guests.

You will lead kitchen staff, assist with menu creation, monitor food safety, manage stock, aid in budgeting, and mentor junior chefs to maintain consistency and quality. This role requires flexibility to work evenings and weekends.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Sous Chef or similar culinary leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, food safety standards and kitchen operations.
• Excellent leadership, organizational and multitasking skills.
• Ability to manage and inspire kitchen staff to maintain high standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day‑to‑day kitchen operations with the Head Chef.
• Supervise and guide kitchen staff to ensure efficient performance.
• Manage food preparation, cooking and presentation to ensure quality.
• Oversee stock levels, orders, storage and waste control.
• Ensure food safety, sanitation and regulatory compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Food safety

Menu development

Communication

Staff mentoring

Job description

Umami in the Tees Valley is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to join our new kitchen team. You will support the Head Chef in daily operations, uphold high culinary standards, and ensure an exceptional dining experience for guests.

You will lead kitchen staff, assist with menu creation, monitor food safety, manage stock, aid in budgeting, and mentor junior chefs to maintain consistency and quality. This role requires flexibility to work evenings and weekends.