Sous Chef

Sodexo Group; Wimbledon; Hybrid; GBP 21,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

Sodexo Group is seeking an experienced Sous Chef for its Johnson Matthey site in Royston. You will work alongside the Head Chef and Catering Manager to deliver high-quality food and outstanding service, while leading the kitchen day-to-day and upholding safety and hygiene standards.

Role offers the opportunity to contribute menu ideas and support professional growth within a busy catering environment. Permanent contract, 40 hours weekly.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as Sous Chef or in a similar senior kitchen role.
• Recognised chef qualification such as NVQ/City & Guilds 706/2 or equivalent.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene and allergen management.
• Experience supervising kitchen teams and coordinating service.
• Good stock control, ordering and waste reduction practices.
• Proven ability to stay organised and work under pressure.
• Positive, team-focused approach and customer service mindset.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook and present high‑quality food for daily services, hospitality and events.
• Support the Head Chef with the smooth day‑to‑day running of the kitchen.
• Supervise, motivate and support the kitchen team, stepping up to lead when required.
• Assist with menu planning and contribute fresh ideas.
• Maintain food safety, hygiene and allergen management standards.
• Assist with ordering, stock control and reducing food waste.
• Ensure the kitchen remains clean, safe and well organised in line with COSHH.
• Deliver excellent customer service and build positive relationships with customers and clients.

Skills

Sous Chef experience

Food safety knowledge

Kitchen supervision

Stock control

Food preparation

Team communication

Customer service

Education

NVQ/City & Guilds 706/2

Job description

Job Title: Sous Chef
Location: Royston
Contract: Permanent, 40 hours per week
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00am - 3:30pm
Rate of Pay: £15.60 per hour

About the Role

We’re looking for an experienced and enthusiastic Sous Chef to join our catering team at the Johnson Matthey site in Royston.

Working alongside the Head Chef and Catering Manager, you’ll play a key role in delivering high-quality food and excellent service to our customers and guests. This is a hands‑on position where you’ll support the day‑to‑day running of the kitchen, help lead the team and ensure consistently high standards of food preparation, presentation, safety and hygiene.

You’ll also have the opportunity to contribute ideas to menus and special catering days, making this a great next step for an experienced chef looking to develop their career within a professional catering environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook and present high-quality food for daily services, hospitality and special events.
• Support the Head Chef with the smooth day‑to‑day running of the kitchen.
• Supervise, motivate and support the kitchen team, stepping up to lead when required.
• Assist with menu planning and contribute fresh, creative food ideas.
• Maintain excellent food safety, hygiene and allergen management standards.
• Support ordering, stock control, stocktakes and the reduction of food waste.
• Ensure the kitchen remains clean, safe and well organised, following Health & Safety and COSHH procedures.
• Deliver excellent customer service and build positive relationships with customers, colleagues and the client.

Skills & Experience

• Previous experience as a Sous Chef, Junior Sous Chef, Senior Chef de Partie or similar.
• A recognised chef qualification such as NVQ, City & Guilds 706/2 or equivalent.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene and allergen management.
• Experience supervising and supporting a kitchen team.
• Good knowledge of stock control, ordering and reducing food waste.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to work effectively under pressure.
• A positive, team-focused approach with good communication and customer service skills.

What We Offer

Working with Sodexo is more than a job it’s a chance to be part of something greater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way. In addition, we offer a range of resources, rewards and benefits for our colleagues and their families.

About Sodexo

At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better every day for everyone to build a better life for all. We are a global leader in services that improve Quality of Life, operating in 55 countries and serving over 100 million consumers each day. We believe in creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.