Sous Chef

The Apple Tree Gift Shop and Teahouse; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

An independent restaurant in Derbyshire is looking for a talented Second Chef to enhance their breakfast offerings. The ideal candidate will have extensive kitchen experience, enjoy a focus on breakfast cuisine, and lead a team in a fast-paced setting. The role involves cooking, menu development, and upholding high standards. Offered is a great work-life balance, competitive benefits, and a voice in creative menu direction.

Benefits

Company pension

Free parking

Bonus pay based on performance

Great work-life balance

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of professional kitchen experience, including leadership role.
• A genuine love of breakfast food and morning culture.
• Cool, focused, and confident under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Cooking and presenting breakfast and lunch dishes to high standards.
• Managing stock rotation, ordering, and inventory.
• Leading the kitchen when the Head Chef is away.

Skills

Leadership

Teamwork

High attention to detail

Organizational skills

Ability to work under pressure

Job description

Second Chef – Lead Breakfast Brilliance at Derbyshire's No.1 Village Brunch Spot!

Location: Ockbrook, Derby

Hours: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Days: Thursday to Monday (closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays)

Type: Full-Time

The Role

We’re looking for a talented, passionate Second Chef to help lead the charge in one of Derbyshire’s most loved kitchens. If you live for breakfast and brunch, love working in a dynamic team, and want to make your mark on a creative, seasonal menu, this could be your dream role.

You’ll be a key player in our kitchen operations, working side‑by‑side with our Head Chef to deliver consistently delicious dishes, shape menu development, and keep service running smoothly. With a loyal customer base and fast‑paced mornings, this role is perfect for someone who thrives under pressure and wants to help steer the future of a thriving independent restaurant.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Cooking and presenting breakfast and lunch dishes to a consistently high standard
• Playing a vital role in menu development and daily kitchen operations
• Leading the kitchen when the Head Chef is away
• Managing stock rotation, ordering, and inventory
• Upholding top tier food hygiene and health & safety standards
• Assisting with prep for occasional evening bistro events
• Collaborating with a tight‑knit, passionate kitchen and front‑of‑house team

What We’re Looking For

• 3–5 years of professional kitchen experience, including time in a leadership or supervisory role
• A genuine love of breakfast food and morning culture
• Cool, confident, and focused under pressure
• Organised, reliable, and able to lead a team when needed
• High attention to detail and a strong work ethic
• A team player who takes pride in great food and service

Why Join The Apple Tree?

• Be part of a well‑established, independent business with 13+ years of success
• Join a kitchen named Derby’s No.1 brunch spot and featured on national TV
• Have a real voice in menu creativity and kitchen direction
• Enjoy daytime‑only hours and a great work‑life balance
• Receive bonus pay based on performance
• Enjoy fabulous drinks, team perks, and full holiday entitlement
• Work with a friendly, ambitious team that’s serious about great food

Benefits

• Company pension
• Free parking

Application question(s)

• What culinary training do you have?

Experience

• Kitchen: 4 years (required)

Work Authorisation

• United Kingdom (required)

To Apply

Send your CV and a covering letter.

Location: In person