Sous Chef

Nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac in the heart of Mayfair, St. James's Hotel and Club is a timeless sanctuary where British heritage meets contemporary luxury. Since its inception in 1857 as an elite gentleman’s club, it has served as a sophisticated "home away from home" for diplomats, authors, and stars of the silver screen.

Stepping through its doors, you leave the bustle of London behind for an atmosphere of refined intimacy. The hotel is renowned for its modern English elevated cuisine by Executive Chef William Drabble, whose menus celebrate the finest seasonal British ingredients with meticulous technique. The collection of suites feels more like private residences than hotel rooms, many featuring rare private terraces overlooking the St. James’s skyline.

What truly defines the "St. James’s story" is its blend of history and heart. Whether you are sipping a signature cocktail in the elegant bar or enjoying the celebrated Masterpiece Afternoon Tea, you are participating in a legacy of hospitality that has spanned over 160 years. It remains a hidden gem for those who seek the quintessential London experience: discreet, opulent, and utterly unforgettable.

We are looking for a talented and passionate Sous Chef to join our busy hotel kitchen team.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced chef who enjoys working in a fast-paced hotel environment and takes pride in delivering consistently high standards of food, service and kitchen operations.

As Sous Chef, you will work closely with the Executive Chef to lead and support the kitchen team, ensuring the smooth running of the kitchen and the consistent delivery of high-quality dishes across our hotel.

You will be involved in everything from daily service and menu preparation to team supervision, stock control and maintaining excellent food safety and hygiene standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Executive Chef with the day-to-day running of the kitchen
• Lead, motivate and support the kitchen team during service
• Prepare and cook high-quality food to hotel standards
• Ensure consistency, presentation and portion control across all dishes
• Assist with menu planning, development and daily specials
• Ensure all food preparation and service areas meet food safety and hygiene standards
• Monitor stock levels, assist with ordering and minimise food waste
• Support with training and development of junior members of the kitchen team
• Ensure the kitchen is clean, organised and efficiently operated at all times
• Maintain high standards during busy breakfast, lunch, dinner and event services
• Step up and take responsibility for the kitchen in the Executive Chef's absence

We are looking for someone who:

• Has previous experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Chef in a hotel, restaurant or similar environment
• Is passionate about food and takes pride in delivering high standards
• Has strong organisational and leadership skills
• Is confident working in a busy kitchen and able to remain calm under pressure
• Has excellent knowledge of food hygiene and kitchen safety
• Is a supportive team player with a positive attitude
• Has good communication skills and enjoys developing others
• Is flexible and willing to support the wider kitchen operation when required

What We Offer

• 50% off from rooms and F&B outlets for you and your friends and family
• Continuous training and development for all staff of all levels
• TFL monthly travel card up to £147.50 for zone 1 -2 paid after successful completion of probation
• Staff meals provided on shift
• Discretionary service charge
• Uniform and laundry service for all formal work attire
• 28 days’ annual leave, including bank holidays, increasing to 1 additional day after two years of service and every two years thereafter, up to a maximum of 8 days.
• Introduce a friend bonus scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme

Hours of work

Reporting to the Executive Chef, you will work 40 hours per week, 5 days out of 7 on a rota basis. You will be required to work a variety of shifts, including early breakfast shifts, daytime and evening shifts, as well as weekends and bank holidays as required.

If you are an experienced chef looking for your next challenge and would like to be part of our hotel team, we would love to hear from you.

In accordance with the requirements of the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006, you will be required to provide appropriate documentary evidence confirming your eligibility to live and work in the UK.