Sous Chef - Barge

Wadworth & Co Ltd; Melksham; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Training & development

Career progression

25% food & accommodation discount

Tips

Flexible working

Cycle to Work Scheme

Enhanced parental leave

Accommodation provided

Job summary

Wadworth’s The Barge Inn in Seend Cleeve is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to join our kitchen leadership team. You will support the Head Chef in daily operations, lead and develop the kitchen team, and ensure meals are prepared to the highest standards.

You will help manage menu implementation, stock control and waste, while maintaining rigorous hygiene and safety practices. A passion for great food and mentoring others is essential.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Sous Chef, Junior Sous Chef or experienced Chef de Partie is essential.
• Strong culinary skills and excellent communication abilities are required.
• Passion for developing people and food.

Responsibilities

• Support the Head Chef with day-to-day kitchen management.
• Lead, motivate and develop the kitchen team to maintain high standards.
• Prepare, cook and present dishes to specification and high standards.
• Take responsibility for kitchen operations in the Head Chef's absence.
• Assist with menu implementation, stock control, ordering and waste minimisation.
• Ensure food hygiene, safety and health & safety standards are maintained.
• Support recruitment, training and development of junior chefs and kitchen staff.
• Manage service periods to ensure smooth operation.
• Drive quality, consistency and profitability through kitchen management.
• Collaborate with front-of-house teams to deliver outstanding customer experiences.

Skills

Leadership

Team development

Food safety

Culinary skills

Job description

At Wadworth, we're proud of our heritage, passionate about hospitality and committed to creating memorable experiences for every customer who walks through our doors.

Set on the picturesque Kennet & Avon Canal in Seend Cleeve, The Barge Inn is a welcoming waterside pub known for its great food, quality drinks, and friendly hospitality.

We're looking for a talented, motivated and experienced Sous Chef to join our kitchen leadership team. This is a fantastic opportunity for a chef who is passionate about great food, enjoys developing others and is ready to take the next step in their culinary career.

As Sous Chef, you will support the Head Chef in the day-to-day management of the kitchen, helping to deliver high-quality food, maintain exceptional standards and lead the kitchen team. You'll play a key role in driving consistency, controlling costs, developing team members and ensuring the kitchen operates efficiently and safely. In the Head Chef's absence, you'll take responsibility for leading the kitchen and ensuring service runs smoothly.

What You'll Be Doing

• Supporting the Head Chef with the day-to-day management of the kitchen operation.
• Leading, motivating and developing the kitchen team to deliver consistently high standards.
• Preparing, cooking and presenting dishes to specification and the highest standards.
• Taking responsibility for kitchen operations in the absence of the Head Chef.
• Assisting with menu implementation, stock control, ordering and minimising waste.
• Ensuring food hygiene, food safety and health & safety standards are maintained at all times.
• Supporting recruitment, training and development of junior chefs and kitchen team members.
• Managing service periods effectively and ensuring a smooth and successful operation.
• Driving quality, consistency and profitability through effective kitchen management.
• Working closely with front-of-house teams to deliver an outstanding customer experience.

What We're Looking For

We want people who share our values and have a genuine passion for food, hospitality and leadership.

Quality: You take pride in every dish that leaves the kitchen and are committed to delivering exceptional food and consistent standards.

Accountability: You take ownership of your responsibilities, lead by example and can be relied upon to make decisions that support the success of the business.

One Team: You enjoy developing and supporting others, creating a positive kitchen culture where everyone works together to achieve shared goals.

Productivity: You are highly organised, able to prioritise effectively and thrive in a fast-paced environment while maintaining food quality and operational standards.

Legacy: You understand the importance of maintaining the reputation of a business with a rich heritage and are proud to contribute to memorable dining experiences for our customers.

Previous experience as a Sous Chef, Junior Sous Chef or experienced Chef de Partie is essential. You'll have strong culinary skills, excellent communication abilities and a passion for developing both people and food.

When You Join Wadworth, You'll Benefit From:

• Training and development opportunities.
• Career progression opportunities within our growing estate.
• Discount offering 25% off food, drink and accommodation.
• Tips.
• Flexible working opportunities.
• Cycle to Work Scheme.
• Enhanced parental leave.
• Accommodation provided (subject to availability).
• Double pay on Christmas Day.
• Wagestream.
• Recognition for great work and living our values.

Ready to Join Us?

If you're passionate about fresh food, enjoy leading a team and are looking for an opportunity to develop your career within a supportive hospitality business, we'd love to hear from you.

Join us and help deliver the quality food, exceptional hospitality and memorable experiences that have been at the heart of Wadworth for generations.