Sous Chef

Sous Chef – The Royal Oak, Duddington

Who we are

Stephen James Inns – independent places, thoughtful hospitality.

We're a small, independent hospitality group of country pubs (some with bedrooms), wine shops and bars. Being independent means we're not a faceless chain – we know our team by name, we value everyone's ideas, and we care about creating great places to work as much as great places to eat, drink and stay. Our focus is simple: good food, well-kept drinks and warm, thoughtful hospitality for every guest who walks through our doors.

The role

We're looking for an experienced, motivated Sous Chef to join the kitchen team at The Royal Oak in Duddington (PE9 3QE), a country pub with 7 bedrooms. Working alongside our Head Chef, you'll play a key part in developing our menus, keeping the kitchen running smoothly and leading the team on the days you're in charge. If you love great food, enjoy bringing people with you and want to keep growing your career in a supportive team, we'd love to hear from you.

Full-time, salaried position – working 5 days out of 7.

Salary: up to £40,000 per year OTE (including tronc).

What you'll be doing

• Supporting the Head Chef with menu development, bringing fresh ideas to our dishes and specials
• Running the kitchen on certain days, leading the team through service and keeping standards high
• Assisting with menu costings to keep our dishes great value and our margins on track
• Placing orders with suppliers, managing stock levels and keeping waste to a minimum
• Training, supporting and developing the kitchen team
• Building a strong, positive working relationship with our front-of-house management team, so the whole pub works as one team
• Making sure every plate leaves the pass looking and tasting great
• Making sure food safety, hygiene and allergen procedures are followed at all times
• Keeping the kitchen clean, well organised and well maintained

What we're looking for

• Previous experience as a Sous Chef, or a strong Junior Sous / Chef de Partie ready to step up
• Most importantly, the right attitude and a real desire to learn and develop
• Confidence leading a team and running a kitchen
• A real passion for food and consistently high standards
• Good knowledge of food safety and allergen regulations, and an understanding of menu costing and stock control
• Great communication skills and a positive, collaborative approach with front-of-house colleagues
• The ability to stay calm and organised in a fast-paced kitchen
• Flexibility to work a variety of shifts, including breakfasts, evenings, weekends and bank holidays

What we offer

• Tronc system for excellent tips
• Staff meals when on duty
• Free parking
• Generous staff discounts across our sister sites
• Education and training opportunities to help you develop your career
• Staff parties
• A positive, encouraging working environment

If you're passionate about great food and want to be part of a team that takes pride in what it does, apply today – we'd love to hear from you.

Pay: Up to £40,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person