Sous Chef

Emma Bridgewater; Stoke-on-Trent; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned café and retail operation in Stoke-on-Trent seeks a passionate Sous Chef. This pivotal role involves supporting the Head Chef, menu development, and ensuring a high standard of food preparation and team supervision. Ideal candidates will have experience in culinary settings and relevant food safety qualifications. Join us in an exciting chapter of growth as we expand our kitchen operations, delivering exceptional dining experiences for our guests.

Qualifications

• Must have GCSE standard education or equivalent.
• Level 2 Food Safety & Hygiene certification is essential.
• NVQ Level 2 in Professional Cookery is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Prepare dishes following recipes with high standards.
• Supervise and train kitchen staff.
• Assist in designing creative menus.

Skills

Team supervision

Menu planning

Food preparation

Culinary expertise

Communication

Education

GCSE standard education

Level 2 Food Safety & Hygiene

NVQ Level 2 in Professional Cookery

NVQ Level 2 in Catering

Job description

Overview

We\'re Expanding – Be Part of Something Big! The Emma Bridgewater experience is evolving! We’re expanding our much-loved destination café into a 200-cover operation supported by a brand-new, purpose-catering facility within our bustling retail site. This is a pivotal moment in our journey – and we’re looking for a passionate and driven Sous Chef to join us and play a key role in shaping this exciting new chapter.

This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to help lead the transition into our new café/kitchen space, support the Head Chef and senior management team with menu development, team direction, and the overall kitchen organisation. You’ll take your lead in the Head Chef’s absence ensure our team is inspired, organised, ready to deliver exceptional food to our growing number of guests.

Can you provide our customers with a memorable dining experience? Are you ready to take your career to the next level? If so, we’d love to hear from you.

Job Summary

The Sous Chef will be a vital member of our kitchen team, acting as the Head Chef’s right hand and taking on a wide range of responsibilities. From recipe development and food preparation to team supervision and food safety, you’ll play a key role in delivering an outstanding customer experience.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Food Preparation: Follow recipes and prepare dishes to high standards of quality and consistency.
• Supervision: Train, motivate, and lead kitchen staff, ensuring an efficient and happy team.
• Menu Planning: Assist in designing creative, seasonal menus and daily specials.
• Inventory Management: Order supplies, manage stock and control kitchen costs effectively.
• Food Safety & Hygiene: Maintain top-tier cleanliness and safety across all kitchen operations.
• Operational Support: Provide hands-on support to ensure smooth service at all times.
• Administrative Tasks: Manage paperwork, stock records, and kitchen documentation.
• Culinary Expertise: Demonstrate strong cooking skills and accuracy in food preparation.
• Leadership & Teamwork: Support a positive, collaborative kitchen environment.
• Organisation & Time Management: Ensure efficient planning and compliance with safety regulations.
• Communication: Communicate clearly with both kitchen staff and front-of-house teams.

Other Responsibilities

• Act as an ambassador of Emma Bridgewater’s values and personality.
• Undertake training and development relevant to the role.
• Always work safely and keep your environment clean, tidy, and hazard-free.
• Be flexible and support other duties as required by the business.

Education & Qualifications

• GCSE standard education - Essential
• Level 2 Food Safety & Hygiene - Essential
• NVQ Level 2 in Professional Cookery - Desirable
• NVQ Level 2 in Catering - Desirable