Reporting to: Head Chef
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Hours: 48 hours per week, Wednesday to Sunday (with flexibility for alternative days)
Location: Royal Southern Yacht Club, Hamble SO31 4HB
Based in the heart of the Hamble River with The Solent on our doorstep, we are one of the world’s finest yacht clubs with a sailing area to match. At The Southern we pride ourselves on our superb Clubhouse and facilities, a dedicated staff who work around the clock to make every Member and guest feel welcome, and our ability to run world class events time and time again.
We are seeking an experienced Sous Chef to play a key role within our kitchen brigade. This is a senior position, suitable for a confident and capable chef who can lead a section autonomously, support junior team members, and deputise effectively for the Head Chef when required.
About the Role
Working closely with the Head Chef, you will contribute to menu delivery, service planning and kitchen organisation, while acting as a role model for junior chefs. You will be expected to demonstrate strong leadership, excellent technical skills, and a calm, professional approach during busy service periods. You will ensure consistently high standards of food quality, presentation and hygiene across restaurant service, bar menus and Club events.
This role requires a hands-on chef with a strong sense of ownership, attention to detail, and the ability to balance quality with efficiency and cost control.
Key Responsibilities
- Deputise for the Head Chef when required supporting in day-to-day kitchen operations.
- Lead, train and mentor Chef de Parties, Commis Chefs and junior kitchen staff, setting clear standards and providing constructive feedback.
- Ensure all food preparation and presentation meets the Club’s quality and consistency standards.
- Contribute to the preparation and delivery of restaurant service, bar food, functions and events.
- Maintain exemplary standards of cleanliness, organisation and food safety within your section.
- Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, health & safety, allergens, COSHH and HACCP requirements.
- Complete all required kitchen documentation accurately and on time.
- Support stock control, ordering and portion control in line with agreed budgets and guidance from the Head Chef.
- Minimise waste and actively contribute to cost control and efficient use of resources.
- Work collaboratively with Front of House colleagues to ensure smooth service and a positive guest experience.
About You
You will be a skilled and experienced chef, comfortable operating within a professional kitchen.
- Proven experience in a high-quality hospitality environment.
- Demonstrated leadership ability, with experience training and supervising junior chefs.
- Highly organised, with strong time management and the ability to prioritise under pressure.
- Passionate about fresh food, high standards and consistent execution.
- Calm, reliable and solutions-focused during busy service.
- Knowledgeable and compliant with food hygiene, health & safety, allergens and environmental health standards.
- Experienced at costing menus and maintaining a budgeted GP %.
- Confident in maintaining portion control and supporting stock management.
- A strong team player with a flexible and professional approach.
Qualifications and Experience
Essential
- Proven experience in a Senior Chef de Partie or Chef de Partie role.
- Level 2 Food Safety & Hygiene
Desirable
- Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery
- Level 3 Food Safety & Hygiene.
- Formal culinary qualifications.
- Knowledge of COSHH and HACCP systems.
Why Join Us?
- Work in a prestigious and well-established yacht club.
- Be part of a supportive and professional kitchen team.
- Varied service, including restaurant dining, bar menus and high-profile events.
- Stunning waterside location with on-site parking.
- Opportunity to develop leadership skills and progress within the kitchen brigade.
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Employee discount
- On-site parking
Pay: £33,000.00-£38,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Free parking
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Southampton SO31 4HB: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Application question(s):
- Do you require sponsorship to work in the UK?
Experience:
- Chef: 5 years (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
- Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (required)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
