Sous Chef – The Stag & Huntsman, Hambleden
We’re looking for a talented and hands-on Sous Chef to join our team at The Stag & Huntsman, a beautiful and well-loved country pub in the heart of the Chiltern village of Hambleden.
This is a fantastic opportunity for a chef who takes pride in cooking seasonal British food to a high standard in a busy, professional pub kitchen. You’ll work closely with our Head Chef to deliver consistent, high-quality food across our menus while helping to lead and develop a small, dedicated kitchen team.
About the Role
As Sous Chef, you’ll play a key role in the day-to-day running of the kitchen. You’ll support the Head Chef in maintaining excellent standards, driving consistency, and ensuring our food reflects the quality and character of the pub and its setting.
Key Responsibilities
Work alongside the Head Chef to deliver our seasonal menus using quality British produce
Take charge of the kitchen during service, ensuring smooth, high-standard food output
Lead by example on food quality, presentation, and consistency
Support and develop the kitchen team through training, coaching and clear communication
Maintain excellent standards of food safety, hygiene and kitchen organisation
Help manage stock, control waste, and keep food costs in line with targets
Contribute ideas to menu development, especially around seasonal and local ingredients
Work collaboratively with the front-of-house team during busy service periods
What We’re Looking For
Strong experience as a Sous Chef or senior chef in a busy restaurant or pub kitchen
A genuine passion for seasonal British cooking and quality ingredients
Proven ability to lead and motivate a team while maintaining high standards
Solid understanding of food safety, hygiene, and kitchen management
Calm under pressure with good organisational skills
A positive, hands-on attitude and pride in your work
Experience in a country pub or high-volume restaurant environment would be advantageous, but attitude and quality of cooking matter most to us.
What We Offer
A beautiful working environment in one of the loveliest villages in the Chilterns
The chance to cook proper, seasonal food with good quality ingredients
A supportive and professional kitchen team
Opportunities to develop your skills and progress within the business
Competitive rate of pay (depending on experience)
Staff meals and a great team to work with
If you’re a passionate chef who enjoys working in a proper country pub and wants to be part of a team that takes pride in what we do, we’d love to hear from you.
Pay: Up to £40,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
