Sous Chef, Dorset

COREcruitment; England; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A UK hospitality group is seeking an experienced Sous Chef for a boutique hotel in Dorset. You will lead the kitchen team, manage service, and cook high-end dishes with seasonal ingredients. The ideal candidate has proven experience in fine dining, strong leadership skills, and a passion for quality food. The role offers a competitive salary of £42,000–£50,000 plus a bonus scheme.

Benefits

Bonus scheme targeting around 10%

Service charge

Opportunity to work with seasonal British produce

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a similar standard of kitchen.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the daily kitchen operation confidently.
• Support the Head Chef by managing service in their absence.
• Deliver refined evening dishes and casual daytime menus.
• Oversee prep and kitchen structure.

Skills

Proven Sous Chef experience

Hands-on, reliable, and organised

Strong understanding of fine dining

Solid knowledge of kitchen systems

Confident leadership

Team player

Job description

Sous Chef - Dorset

We’re looking for a Sous Chef to join a food‑led country hotel in Dorset.

It’s a boutique operation with 17 rooms and around 40 guests at full capacity. The kitchen has become the heart of the business, serving high‑end evening meals alongside relaxed, farm‑to‑fork food during the day. Produce is seasonal, local, and often grown on‑site, so this role suits someone who enjoys working with ingredients that speak for themselves and is passionate about seasonal fresh produce.

What you do

• Lead the daily kitchen operation and run service confidently
• Support the Head Chef by managing service in their absence
• Deliver refined evening dishes and casual daytime menus
• Oversee prep, kitchen structure, and team organisation
• Maintain consistency, calm, and control under pressure
• Guide and mentor a small team of around ten chefs

What we’re looking for

• Proven Sous Chef experience in a similar standard of kitchen
• Hands‑on, reliable, and organised approach
• Strong understanding of both fine dining and relaxed service styles
• Solid knowledge of kitchen systems, cost control, and prep management
• A confident leader who sets high standards and leads by example
• A team player who enjoys guest interaction and a down‑to‑earth culture

The details

• Salary: £42,000–£50,000 depending on experience
• Bonus scheme targeting around 10% and Service charge
• Must have a full driving licence due to the location of the site

If you want to work with the best seasonal British produce, cook in a restaurant that values quality over quantity, and be part of something truly special, apply today.