Senior Sous Chef

Reporting to our Head Chef, the role is full time working 45 hours per week, with a competitive salary - please enquire for more details.

The Role

We are looking for a talented and passionate Senior Sous Chef to join our experienced kitchen brigade. You will play a key role in delivering high-quality dishes for our 2-rosette restaurant and a busy events operation.

Working closely with the Head Chef, you will be responsible for preparing fresh, locally sourced ingredients for a wide range of menus, ensuring consistency, quality and presentation are maintained at all times. From elegant plated meals to buffets and large-scale events for up to 200 guests, your work will be varied and rewarding.

You will be responsible for managing the kitchen in the absence of the head chef including, assisting with stock control and ordering, and ensuring all health, safety and hygiene standards are upheld. This is a hands-on role suited to someone who thrives in a fast-paced, high-standard kitchen environment.

Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

· Preparing, cooking and presenting high-quality dishes across restaurant, banqueting and event menus to an exceptional standard

· Supporting the Head Chef with the day-to-day running of the kitchen and leading the brigade in their absence

· Supervising and motivating chefs across all sections to ensure consistency, efficiency and high standards of food preparation

· Assisting with menu development, seasonal changes, specials and creative input across all food offerings

· Ensuring all dietary requirements and allergens are fully understood, communicated and adhered to

· Maintaining strict food hygiene, health and safety standards at all times, in line with kitchen procedures

· Assisting with stock control, ordering, supplier communication and minimising waste across the kitchen

· Working efficiently to tight service deadlines, busy restaurant periods and large event schedules

· Supporting, training and mentoring junior chefs, sharing knowledge and best practice

· Maintaining clear and professional communication with the kitchen, Front of House and management teams

Knowledge and Experience

We are looking for a Senior Sous Chef with a genuine passion for fresh food, high standards and strong kitchen leadership. You will have previous experience in a quality hotel kitchen or restaurant of a similar standard, with confidence working across multiple sections and supporting both restaurant service and large-scale events.

You will be a dedicated team player with a positive, hands-on approach, excellent organisational skills and the ability to lead by example under pressure. The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of kitchen operations, food safety, stock control and allergen management, and will take pride in developing others within a professional and supportive kitchen environment.

Company overview

The Spa Hotel is an independent four-star hotel set within 14 acres of picturesque grounds in Royal Tunbridge Wells. With 70 bedrooms, a beautiful Spa and Wellness Suite, seven versatile event spaces and a stunning outdoor wedding temple, the hotel is a thriving hospitality destination, welcoming leisure guests, corporate clients, weddings and events throughout the year.

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Free parking
• On-site parking

Work Location: In person