Role: Sous Chef
Responsible to and reporting to: Head Chef
Date: May 2026
Hambledon is a premium Hampshire wine estate, pioneers of English wine, located on the edge of the South Downs National Park. In 2023 it was purchased by British owned and multi-generational businesses, Symington Family Estates and Berry Bros. & Rudd.
Our ambition is to be a best-in-class hospitality-led destination in the English wine category, that feeds the soul and allows people to flourish and thrive in this beautiful part of the South Downs National Park.
The destination will offer multiple food and drink-led products, spaces for private hire for multiple occasions and a series of wine-led experiences befitting of our innovative profile in the market.
We completed in December 2024 a multi-million-pound visitor centre which will be a pivotal part of our hospitality offering at Hambledon. In time we are also planning to develop a boutique accommodation offer, that will complete our guest
Responsibilities:
As Sous Chef, you are the right hand to the Head Chef and a driving force behind the culinary identity of the restaurant. In a fine dining environment, this role goes beyond execution—you are a steward of precision, creativity, and excellence. You will help orchestrate a kitchen where every detail matters, from the balance of flavours on the plate to the seamless rhythm of service.
Main Duties:
- Collaborate closely with the Head Chef to bring refined, seasonal menus to life
- Execute dishes with exceptional attention to detail, ensuring consistency in flavour, texture, and presentation
- Uphold the highest standards of plating, ensuring each dish reflects the restaurant’s aesthetic and philosophy
- Inspire, mentor, and guide a brigade of chefs, fostering a culture of professionalism, respect, and continuous learning
- Lead by example during service, maintaining composure and precision in a high-pressure environment
- Act as the Head Chef’s representative, confidently overseeing the kitchen in their absence
- Ensure a seamless flow of service, anticipating challenges and responding with calm efficiency
- Work in harmony with front-of-house teams to deliver a cohesive and memorable dining experience
- Take pride in contributing to moments that delight and surprise guests
- Contribute ideas for new dishes, tastings, and seasonal menus, drawing inspiration from high-quality, often locally sourced ingredients
- Participate in tastings, refining dishes to achieve balance, elegance, and originality
- Oversee stock take, ordering, and supplier relationships with a focus on premium ingredients
- Minimise waste while maintaining uncompromising quality
- Ensure strict adherence to food safety, hygiene, and fine dining standards
What We Offer:
· Competitive pay + tronc
· Staff discounts on food and drinks
· Staff food available on shift
· Opportunities for career development and internal progression
· A fun, supportive team culture
· Regular team events and incentive
All Main Duties are recommended however training can also be required for the right candidate
Pay: £40,000.00-£45,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
