Sous Chef - The Bricklayers Arms

RedCat Pub Company; Hemel Hempstead; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned gastropub in the picturesque Chess Valley seeks a talented Sous Chef to join their kitchen team. In this role, you will support the Head Chef, manage daily operations, and lead a brigade to ensure high standards of food preparation and service. Ideal candidates will have experience as a Sous Chef or be a strong CDP ready to advance. A passion for seasonal ingredients and ability to thrive under pressure are essential for contributing to the pub's award-winning culinary reputation.

Benefits

Work/Life Balance

Tronc scheme with 100% tips

Access to wages via Wagestream

Inspirational career development programmes

Employee assistance programme

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Sous Chef or strong CDP ready to step up.
• Confident with all sections of the kitchen and leading service.
• Knowledge of food safety standards and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily kitchen operations alongside the Head Chef.
• Lead and motivate the kitchen brigade.
• Ensure high standards of food presentation and hygiene.
• Contribute to menu development with fresh ingredients.
• Train junior staff and uphold a culture of excellence.
• Manage ordering and stock control when required.

Skills

Leadership

Kitchen Management

Food Safety Compliance

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Job description

Why work for us?

• Work/Life Balance?A genuine belief in work/life balance and an understanding of working together to promote flexibility
• Tips?A Tronc scheme with 100% of gratuities distributed to our teams every week via TipJar
• Financial Support?Access wages as you earn them through Wagestream,
• Development?Inspirational career development programmes
• Recognition?Dedicated reward and recognition platform
• Discounts?Food and Accommodation discounts nationwide
• Personal support?Employee assistance programme and wellbeing support

We’re looking for a talented and motivated Sous Chef to join our kitchen team

This is a fantastic opportunity for a skilled chef who’s ready to take on a leadership role, support the Head Chef, and help shape a kitchen known for consistency, creativity, and teamwork.

If you want ownership, influence, and a role that respects your craft, you’re in the right place.

Set in the picturesque Chess Valley, The Bricklayers Arms is a Grade II listed, 18th-century gastropub renowned for its charm and culinary excellence. With its ivy-clad exterior, rustic low-beamed ceilings, and roaring log fires, the pub offers a quintessentially English countryside experience.

Celebrated for its award-winning cuisine, the AA rosette pub has been honoured multiple times as Hertfordshire’s "County Dining Pub of the Year" by The Good Pub Guide. Under the leadership of the Head Chef, the kitchen crafts seasonal dishes that blend traditional British flavours with modern flair, complemented by an extensive wine list and a selection of fine ales.

The Bricklayers Arms is more than just a dining destination; it's a community hub that hosts regular events, including monthly dog walks and seasonal gatherings. It offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for both guests and staff.

The job in a nutshell

• Work alongside the Head Chef to manage daily kitchen operations
• Lead and motivate the brigade, ensuring smooth and efficient service
• Maintain high standards of food presentation, consistency, and hygiene
• Contribute to menu development using fresh, seasonal ingredients
• Train junior staff and uphold a culture of respect, safety, and excellence
• Manage ordering, stock control, and kitchen admin when required

What we are looking for

• Previous experience as a Sous Chef or strong CDP ready to step up
• Confident with all sections of the kitchen and leading service
• Passion for quality, detail, and seasonal food
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Ability to thrive under pressure and maintain a positive team environment
• Knowledge of food safety standards and compliance

Ready to work in a kitchen that runs on trust and talent? Apply now and let's talk about where your leadership could take you next