Senior Sous Chef

Oakbarnrestaurant; Mid Sussex; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tips & bonuses

Work-life balance

Supportive atmosphere

Job summary

Oakbarnrestaurant in Mid Sussex is searching for an experienced Senior Sous Chef to lead their kitchen brigade. This role requires a passionate individual with a strong culinary background to deliver Rosette-standard cuisine while mentoring a team of nine chefs.

The ideal candidate should have proven Sous Chef experience, exceptional leadership skills, and a creative flair for seasonal menu innovation. The position offers a supportive work environment with flexible shifts and a commitment to work-life balance.

Qualifications

• Solid and proven Sous Chef experience in restaurants or gastro pubs.
• Strong background in high-quality and fresh-produce kitchens.
• Creative flair with seasonal produce and menu innovation.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily running of the kitchen brigade (9 chefs + KP’s).
• Lead, inspire and mentor the team with confidence.
• Create and develop seasonal menus and daily specials.

Skills

Sous Chef experience

Leadership skills

Menu innovation

Understanding of GP and budgeting

Communication skills

Job description

Senior Sous Chef – (One of Sussex’s Best)

This is a unique opportunity to lead one of Sussex’s most highly regarded independent restaurants. If you are ready to bring your creativity, leadership & culinary expertise to The Oak Barn, we would like to hear from you!

Apply today & join a restaurant where passion meets excellence

Benefits of working for us:

• Tips & bonuses (weekly paid, average + £6,000 annually*)
• Work‑life balance: 2.5 days off weekly & 9.15pm* finish times
• 4.5 days over 7* (mix of splits & straights)
• 3 evenings off a week*
• 45-50 hours a week*
• Working Hours*: 9.15am – 3.30pm – Break – 5.30pm – 9.15pm
• Flexible shifts with lifestyle‑friendly hours
• Family‑run & supportive atmosphere with a hardworking & passionate, "work hard … play hard" culture
• Experienced chef team

About Us

The Oak Barn Restaurant is a family‑run, independent & top‑rated 150‑cover Restaurant & Bar in Mid Sussex. We pride ourselves on creating Rosette‑standard modern British cuisine, combining timeless classics with contemporary flair. Our menus are seasonal, locally sourced & freshly prepared to order, with daily specials & catering for weddings, buffets & large group bookings.

The Role

We are seeking a dynamic, passionate & proven Senior Sous Chef to take the culinary reins of our busy kitchen alongside our Head Chef. This is a hands‑on leadership role where you will inspire, mentor & co‑manage a brigade of 9 chefs, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, creativity & consistency.

Food Service Times

• Monday – Saturday: 12pm – 3pm & 6pm – 9pm
• Sunday: 12pm – 7pm
• Out of the kitchen by approx. 9.15pm weekdays, 7.30pm Sundays*

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily running of the kitchen brigade (9 chefs + KP’s)
• Lead, inspire & mentor the team with confidence
• Create & develop seasonal menus & daily specialsEfficiently plan & coordinate events, weddings & buffets
• Prepare, cook & present fresh food to Rosette standard
• Manage ordering, stock control, GP awareness & cost control
• Uphold Health & Safety & Hygiene regulations
• Collaborate effectively with the Front of House team
• Ensure cleanliness, organisation & high standards across the kitchen

The Ideal Candidate

• Solid & proven Sous Chef experience in restaurants or gastro pubs
• Strong background in high‑quality & fresh‑produce kitchens
• Creative flair with seasonal produce & menu innovation
• Thrives under pressure in a fast‑paced environment
• Excellent leadership, communication & mentoring skills
• Committed, consistent & detail‑oriented work approach
• Strong understanding of GP, budgeting & food waste control
• Own transport essential
• No accommodation provided – UK‑based applicants only

*On rare occasions, such as specific days or weeks of the year, or when necessary, work hours, shift coverage, pay & schedules may change.