Sous Chef at Ellekay Hospitality Group in London, on Only Chefs.
An exciting opportunity to help shape a new kitchen operation, contribute fresh ideas and lead a team that takes pride in every dish.
Location: Bromley, South London
Employment type: Permanent
Salary: Competitive
Working pattern: Rota-based, including weekends and occasional evenings
Mobilisation and preparation: December 2026
Official start: January 2027
Reports to: Executive Chef
The OpportunityWe are looking for a talented and enthusiastic Sous Chef who loves great food, enjoys developing others and is ready to make a contribution from the beginning. Working closely with the Executive Chef, you will help turn creative menus into consistently excellent food and keep daily service running smoothly.
Job PurposeAs second-in-command, you will support the Executive Chef in managing daily kitchen operations, coordinating the kitchen brigade and maintaining high standards of food quality, presentation, hygiene and service. You will provide hands-on leadership, support staff development and take responsibility for the kitchen in the Executive Chef’s absence.
Key Responsibilities· Lead and coordinate Chefs de Partie, Commis Chefs, preparation cooks and kitchen assistants, allocating tasks according to skills and service requirements.
· Organise preparation and kitchen stations to ensure the team is ready for service and dishes are delivered on time.
· Maintain consistent standards in flavour, cooking methods, portion sizes and presentation.
· Contribute ideas to seasonal menus, new dishes and special events.
· Support ordering, accurate stock records and stock rotation; control ingredient usage and reduce food waste.
· Maintain food safety, allergen management and hygiene procedures, completing required records and supporting safe working practices.
· Coach colleagues, support new starters and encourage clear communication and teamwork.
· Keep equipment, workstations and storage areas clean, organised and properly maintained; report faults promptly.
· Respond calmly to operational challenges and lead the kitchen in the Executive Chef’s absence.
Sous Chef Person Specification
The following criteria describe the qualifications, experience and personal qualities required for the role.
Essential Qualifications· NVQ Level 2 or above in Professional Cookery, or an equivalent recognised culinary qualification.
· A minimum of Level 2 Food Safety and Hygiene.
Essential Experience and Knowledge· Experience working in a busy professional kitchen, with the ability to support daily preparation and service.
· Strong practical cooking skills and knowledge of ingredients, cooking techniques and a variety of cuisines.
· Experience guiding colleagues, allocating tasks or supporting the coordination of kitchen service.
· Knowledge of food safety, allergen management, stock rotation, portion control and waste reduction.
Essential Skills and Personal Qualities· A hands-on leadership style, with the ability to motivate, coach and support others.
· Clear communication and a positive, respectful approach to teamwork.
· Strong organisation, time management and attention to detail.
· The ability to remain calm under pressure and solve problems during busy service periods.
· Creativity, pride in food quality and a commitment to consistent standards.
· Reliability and flexibility to work a rota including weekends and occasional evenings, with occasional travel as required.
Desirable Qualifications and Experience· Level 3 Food Safety and Hygiene qualification preferred.
· NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery, or an equivalent recognised culinary qualification.
· Three or more years’ experience in a busy professional kitchen.
· Previous experience as a Sous Chef or in a similar kitchen supervisory role.
· Experience contributing to menu development, ordering and kitchen cost control.
Working Arrangements and RecruitmentThe permanent base is Bromley, South London. Occasional ad hoc travel may be required to support business and operational needs. The role operates on a rota, including weekends and occasional evenings.
You will be required to attend scheduled training, preparation and mobilisation sessions during December 2026, ahead of your official start in January 2027. Appointment is subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks, including an Enhanced DBS check. A three-month probationary period applies. Interview details will be shared with shortlisted candidates.
Ready to bring your skills, ideas and passion to our kitchen? We would love to hear from you.
If you are interested in applying for this role, please send your CV along with a brief explanation of your reasons for interest to kyrra.crawford@ellekayhospitality.co.uk .
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly, and further details regarding the interview process will be provided at that stage.
Thank you for your interest. We look forward to hearing from you!
Best Regards,
Ellekay Hospitality Group