Sous Chef - Covent Garden, London - New Opening!
Join the Opening Team at Blue Note London
Blue Note, one of the world's most celebrated live music venues, is opening its first London home in Covent Garden.
We're looking for an experienced and passionate Sous Chef to join our opening kitchen leadership team. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the culinary identity of one of London's most exciting hospitality venues while working alongside an ambitious team committed to delivering exceptional food and unforgettable guest experiences.
About the Role
As Sous Chef, you will work closely with the Head Chef to oversee the day-to-day operation of the kitchen, ensuring consistently exceptional food quality, efficient service and a positive team culture.
You will lead by example during service, supporting, mentoring and developing the kitchen brigade while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, organisation and cleanliness. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring excellent culinary skills, strong organisational ability and a genuine passion for hospitality.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the Head Chef in the day-to-day management of the kitchen operation.
- Lead kitchen service in the Head Chef's absence, ensuring smooth, efficient and professional execution.
- Supervise, coach and develop the kitchen brigade, creating a positive and supportive working environment.
- Ensure every dish leaving the kitchen consistently meets Blue Note's quality and presentation standards.
- Assist with menu development, recipe testing and seasonal menu changes.
- Monitor food quality throughout preparation and service.
- Manage stock levels, placing orders and ensuring appropriate inventory control.
- Minimise food waste through effective stock rotation and ortion control.
- Ensure all deliveries are checked, stored and recorded correctly.
- Maintain HACCP procedures and ensure full compliance with food safety legislation.
- Monitor kitchen cleanliness and organisation at all times.
- Assist with rota planning to ensure appropriate staffing levels.
- Support recruitment, interviewing and onboarding of new kitchen team members.
- Deliver ongoing coaching, training and performance feedback.
- Ensure all equipment is maintained correctly and report maintenance requirements promptly.
- Work collaboratively with Front of House to ensure seamless guest experiences.
- Assist in controlling kitchen labour and food cost budgets.
- Promote a positive, respectful and professional team culture.
- Support private events, VIP dinners and special performances where required.
Skills & Experience
We're looking for an experienced kitchen leader who combines excellent culinary ability with strong leadership skills.
You'll have:
- Previous experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Chef de Partie within a quality restaurant, hotel or hospitality venue.
- Strong leadership and people management skills.
- Excellent knowledge of food safety and HACCP procedures.
- Experience managing high-volume service while maintaining exceptional quality.
- Strong organisational and time management skills.
- A calm, professional approach under pressure.
- Passion for mentoring and developing junior chefs.
- A genuine enthusiasm for hospitality and exceptional food.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and bank holidays.
- The legal right to work in the UK.
Salary & Benefits
- Salary: £50,000–£55,000 per annum + tronc (depending on experience)
You'll also receive:
- Blue Note London staff discount.
- Company pension scheme.
- 28 days paid annual leave inclusive of bank holidays.
- Ongoing training and professional development.
- Career progression opportunities.
- Opportunity to join the opening team at one of London's most exciting hospitality venues.
Schedule
Hours: Full-time.
Evening, weekend and bank holiday availability is essential.