Senior Sous Chef

Interaction - Bristol; Exeter; On-site; GBP 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious culinary establishment in Exeter is seeking a Senior Sous Chef to lead a dedicated kitchen team in a luxurious setting. The role offers creative freedom in menu design, ensuring exceptional dining experiences for guests. Responsibilities include supporting the Head Chef and maintaining high culinary standards. Competitive salary package of approximately £46,800 per year, with additional benefits including extensive holiday allowance and well-being resources.

Benefits

30 days holiday annually, increasing to 35 after five years

Access to mental health support

Wellbeing resources including fitness classes

Discounts on dining and accommodation

Complimentary overnight stay with dinner for you and a guest

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in a high-end, fine dining establishment as a Sous Chef is essential.
• Leadership skills are crucial to motivate the kitchen team.
• Creativity in menu design and cooking is highly valued.

Responsibilities

• Support the Head Chef in leading the kitchen team.
• Ensure high standards of food and service delivery.
• Craft bespoke dishes tailored to guest preferences.

Skills

Proven experience as a Sous Chef in a high-end, fine dining environment

Strong leadership and team motivation skills

Creative, flexible approach to menu design and cooking

Passion for local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients

Excellent organizational skills

Genuine enthusiasm for hospitality and guest satisfaction

Job description

Senior Sous Chef – Private Residence & Boutique Hotel

Contract type: Permanent

Job type: Full-Time

Salary: Up to approximately £46,800 (including basic salary plus service charge)

Are you a talented and passionate culinary professional looking to lead in a luxurious setting? We are seeking a dedicated Senior Sous Chef to join a prestigious private residence and boutique hotel nestled in stunning countryside.

Set amidst expansive grounds, this intimate 8‑bedroom property offers a unique dining experience without fixed menus, allowing you the creative freedom to craft bespoke, memorable dishes tailored to each guest. No two days are the same, providing a dynamic environment for a chef who thrives on variety and innovation.

In this role, you will support the Head Chef in leading a close‑knit kitchen team, ensuring the delivery of exceptional food and service. You'll be hands‑on in the kitchen, highly organized, and a natural leader, inspiring your team while upholding the highest standards of quality, consistency, and creativity.

This position is ideal for a chef who enjoys working in a luxurious setting, building relationships with guests, and delivering personalized dining experiences.

The role involves a 48‑hour workweek. Live‑in accommodation options are available to assist with settling in.

Key Requirements

• Proven experience as a Sous Chef in a high‑end, fine dining environment
• Strong leadership and team motivation skills
• Creative, flexible approach to menu design and cooking
• Passion for local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to remain calm under pressure
• Genuine enthusiasm for hospitality and guest satisfaction

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary of approximately £46,800 per year (including basic and service charge) based on a 48‑hour week
• 30 days holiday annually, increasing to 35 days after five years
• Celebratory birthday lunch on‑site
• Access to mental health support and employee assistance programs
• Wellbeing resources including online fitness classes, mindfulness tools, and healthy recipes
• Discounts and cashback through employee reward schemes
• Estate‑wide discounts on dining, accommodation, wine, spa products, and more
• Complimentary overnight stay with dinner for you and a guest to experience the property firsthand
• "Wow" reward scheme – £1,000 to spend as you wish
• Referral bonus of up to £1,000 for successfully recommending a new team member
• Premium pay for holiday shifts during Christmas and New Year
• Low‑cost healthcare cash plan (optional)
• Free financial planning advice
• Career development opportunities across various departments on the estate, including unexpected areas like adventure activities
• Fully funded apprenticeship programs

Please note, due to the rural location, own transport is essential