Sous Chef

Hamilton Mayday; Oxford; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious academic institution in Oxford is seeking a skilled Sous Chef to join their culinary team. You will ensure high standards of food preparation, manage kitchen operations, and contribute to innovative menu planning. Ideal candidates will possess strong culinary skills and leadership abilities, along with a passion for sustainability. This role offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits.

Benefits

38 days’ paid holiday

Pension scheme

Access to world-class facilities

Qualifications

• Experience in fine dining or similar high-quality food production.
• Strong ability to create menus for various occasions.
• Good knowledge of kitchen management and health standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily kitchen operations and staff.
• Manage food preparation quality and presentation.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

Skills

Culinary skills

Team leadership

Food safety knowledge

Menu innovation

Job description

Oxford University

Job Title: Sous Chef

Salary: £36,000 – £41,636 per annum

Location: Oxford, UK

Oxford University seeks to recruit a friendly, energetic, and skilled Sous Chef to join our dynamic culinary team. Reporting directly to the Executive Head Chef, you will play a vital role in delivering consistently high-quality food and exceptional service across our college community. This is an exciting opportunity to work within one of the most diverse and inclusive colleges at Oxford University, renowned for its vibrant community and commitment to sustainability and lifelong learning.

About the Role

As a Sous Chef, you will work alongside two other Sous Chefs to oversee the day-to-day operations of Oxford University kitchens. Your responsibilities will include preparing and presenting high-standard food for a variety of settings—from daily catering to special events and functions. You will ensure that all food is prepared to the highest standards, manage supplier relationships, and actively participate in menu planning, costing, and innovation to meet the diverse needs of our community.

Your leadership will be essential in fostering a positive kitchen environment, encouraging teamwork, and developing junior staff members. This role offers a unique chance to make a meaningful impact on our college community through culinary excellence and sustainable practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the smooth operation of the college kitchens, ensuring all food preparation meets high standards of quality and presentation.
• Assist in menu creation, planning, and costing for daily services and special events.
• Manage food ordering and stock control, maintaining efficient inventory levels.
• Supervise, support, and develop kitchen staff to ensure a motivated and professional team.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, food hygiene standards, and college policies.
• Contribute to sustainability initiatives, including waste reduction and sourcing local ingredients.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment at all times.

What We’re Looking For

The ideal candidate will be friendly, enthusiastic, and passionate about delivering exceptional culinary experiences. You should have:

• Excellent culinary skills with experience in creating menus for both daily catering and special occasions.
• Proven ability to produce high-quality food in a fine dining or similar environment.
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to encourage and develop team members.
• Good knowledge of food safety standards and kitchen management.
• Creativity and enthusiasm for menu innovation and sustainability.
• Previous experience working within a busy, high-standard kitchen environment.

Why Join?

Oxford University is the most internationally diverse college within Oxford University, fostering an inclusive, egalitarian, and vibrant community. We are committed to supporting our staff’s professional development and well-being, offering:

• A competitive salary of £36,000 – £41,636 per annum.
• Membership of the University’s staff benefits program, including 38 days’ paid holiday (pro-rata for part-time roles), pension scheme, and access to world-class facilities.
• Opportunities to contribute to sustainability initiatives and community-building activities.
• A supportive environment that values continuous, lifelong learning, and career development.
• The chance to work within a prestigious academic environment with a rich cultural diversity.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about culinary excellence and eager to contribute to a vibrant academic community, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your application, including a CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role.