Sous Chef

Butcombe Pubs & Inns; Winchester; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading pub in the Hampshire countryside, the Woolpack Inn, is seeking a passionate Sous Chef to join its culinary team and help shape its renewed culinary vision. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work with seasonal, local produce in a beautiful setting, focusing on quality and creativity in a leadership position.

Benefits

Competitive salary plus generous tips

Opportunity for career growth

Work with locally sourced ingredients

Exciting relaunch responsibility

Qualifications

• At least 2 years’ experience in a quality-driven kitchen.
• Confident, talented Sous Chef or ambitious Junior Sous ready to step up.
• Passion for sustainability and working with local produce.

Responsibilities

• Support the Head Chef in daily service, prep, and kitchen management.
• Lead during busy services and in the Head Chef’s absence.
• Train and mentor junior chefs in technique and safety.

Skills

Leadership

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Communication

Job description

Are you a passionate and ambitious chef ready to step into a leadership role in a dynamic, high-quality kitchen? Do you thrive in a countryside pub that celebrates fresh, seasonal food and local produce? If so, we’d love to hear from you.

Join the Culinary Team at the Reimagined Woolpack Inn: Heritage, Hospitality, and Fresh Thinking

Located in the picturesque village of Totford, Hampshire, The Woolpack Inn is a beautifully restored Grade I listed pub with rooms, blending historical charm with refined modern touches. Following a significant refurbishment, we are reopening with renewed energy and a bold culinary vision.

A New Chapter: Stunning Refurbishment & Fresh Ambitions

Recent enhancements have transformed the inn, with extended kitchen facilities, an elegant new decking area with pergola and canopy, and carefully curated landscaping. Our on-site Market Garden now brings ultra-local, organic produce right to the kitchen door, reinforcing our commitment to sustainability and field-to-fork dining.

Our Kitchen Ethos

Led by Head Chef Luke, our kitchen is built on passion, precision, and produce. We’re proud to hold Two AA Rosettes, and our goal is to push culinary boundaries while maintaining the warmth and authenticity of a true country pub. Every dish is thoughtfully created using the best of Hampshire’s seasonal ingredients.

Why Join Us as Sous Chef?

• Be part of a highly motivated kitchen team at an exciting time of relaunch
• Work in a menu-led, produce-driven environment with real creative input
• Collaborate directly with the Head Chef and growers in our Market Garden
• Gain hands-on experience in developing a destination dining venue
• Help shape the culinary direction of a venue with serious aspirations

The Role

As Sous Chef, you’ll be the right hand to the Head Chef, playing a crucial role in the daily running of the kitchen and stepping up to lead the team when needed. From prep to plating, staff mentoring to stock control, you’ll be central to the kitchen’s success — and our guests’ experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Supporting the Head Chef in daily service, prep, and kitchen management
• Leading the brigade during busy services and in the Head Chef’s absence
• Upholding and evolving our food standards and kitchen systems
• Helping train and mentor junior chefs in technique and safety
• Managing kitchen hygiene, allergens, ordering, and stock rotation
• Contributing to menu development with creative, seasonal ideas

What We’re Looking For:

• A confident, talented Sous Chef (or ambitious Junior Sous ready to step up)
• At least 2 years’ experience in a quality-driven kitchen
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Passion for sustainability, seasonality, and working with local produce
• High standards in cleanliness, organisation, and attention to detail
• Cool under pressure, team player, and hands-on attitude

What You’ll Get:

• Competitive salary plus generous tips
• The chance to be part of an exciting relaunch with real responsibility
• A kitchen that values skill, growth, and creativity
• The opportunity to work with ingredients grown just metres from your stove
• A beautiful rural location with a loyal and growing customer base
• Genuine scope to grow your career within a forward-thinking, independent business

This is more than a job — it’s a chance to help shape something special. If you’re ready to take the next step in your culinary journey, we’d love to meet you.