Sous Chef

The Wateredge Inn; Ambleside; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Colleague accommodation

Visa sponsorship available

Job summary

The Wateredge Inn in Ambleside, nestled on Lake Windermere, is seeking a hands-on Sous Chef to join our kitchen team. You’ll work closely with the Head Chef to showcase fresh ingredients, develop menus and control costs while leading a talented kitchen crew.

In fast‑paced, high‑quality service you’ll manage stock, orders and cleanliness, support front‑of‑house, and, when needed, step in for the Head Chef. Colleague accommodation is included.

Qualifications

• Sous Chef role in a fast-paced kitchen.
• Ability to lead a team and work with Head Chef.
• Experience in menu development and costing.
• Stock control, supplier ordering and kitchen cleanliness.

Responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen team and support Head Chef to maintain high standards.
• Contribute to menu development and costing.
• Manage stock, ordering from nominated suppliers, and maintain cleanliness.
• Collaborate with front-of-house and management for a seamless guest experience.
• Step in for Head Chef when needed.

Skills

Team leadership

Menu development

Food costing

Stock control

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Job description

About the Inn

What makes the perfect pub? It’s great ales, delicious food, a welcoming atmosphere, and the warm welcome from a team that’s at the heart of everything we do. The Inn Collection Group is a multi‑award‑winning pubs with rooms company, proudly located in some of the most outstanding destinations across the North of England and Wales. At ICG, we deliver exceptional hospitality by living and breathing our core values of respect, customer focused, warmth, honesty, all with the goal of Making People Happy.

Employee Benefits

• Celebrate your birthday with an extra paid holiday.
• Build your future with support from our Lead‑Inn development program.
• Take the time you need to rest and recharge; Paid Breaks are on us.
• Enjoy 50% off food at any of our Inns.
• Relax with a stay at any of our Inns during January, February, and March for just £1.
• Explore our beautiful locations with 1/3 off room bookings all year round.
• Experience a spontaneous trip away with £50 on same day bookings.
• Your loved ones can enjoy 15% off bed and breakfast.
• 24/7 confidential support is always there when you need it with our Employee Assistance Programme.
• Contribute to a company that gives back through our Give‑inn back scheme.
• Join an award‑winning team recognised as the Best Pub Employer at the Publican Awards.

Location

Set in an idyllic lakeside setting, The Wateredge Inn in Ambleside boasts one of the most stunning locations in the Lake District. Its beer garden, right on the shores of Lake Windermere, offers breath‑taking views of the water and surrounding landscape, providing the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Position Overview

You’ll fit right inn

As Sous Chef, you’ll be at the heart of our kitchen, ensuring every dish showcases the best of fresh, quality ingredients and reflects our high standards. Working closely with the Head Chef, you’ll help maintain consistent excellence across all areas of the kitchen, bringing both skill and creativity to every aspect of the role.

From managing a talented team to contributing to menu development and costing, you’ll play a vital role in shaping the guest experience. You thrive in fast‑paced environments, staying calm under pressure while meeting deadlines efficiently. Your strong interpersonal skills enable you to build great relationships across the kitchen, front‑of‑house, and management teams, ensuring seamless collaboration.

Beyond cooking, your role will include key operational tasks such as stock control, ordering from nominated suppliers, and overseeing kitchen cleanliness. You’ll take charge in the Head Chef’s absence, confidently managing the team and ensuring smooth daily operations.

If you’re energised by a challenge, passionate about food, and take pride in delivering excellence, you’ll fit right inn.

This role comes with the added benefit of colleague accommodation.

We welcome applications from Skilled Worker visa holders and can transfer Certificates of Sponsorship.