Sous Chef

Part of Balfour Winery and set in the nearby village of Goudhurst , The Winemaker’s Pub is our traditional local with wine at its heart. Rooted in English wine, British cooking and a strong sense of home, it sits alongside The Winemakers’ Kitchen and the Cellar Door as one of three ways to experience Balfour across the estate. This is English wine in its most natural setting: a welcoming, generous pub where guests can return time and again for seasonal British dishes, estate-only wines by the glass, and a relaxed overnight stay in one of four boutique bedrooms.

Location: The Winemakers Pub, Goudhurst

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

As Sous Chef , you will work closely with the Head Chef to deliver exceptional food and maintain high standards across all areas of the kitchen. You'll play a key role in day-to-day operations , supporting menu execution, food quality, stock control, and team development.

This is a hands-on position suited to a chef who enjoys a busy service, leads by example, and is passionate about creating memorable dining experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Head Chef in the daily running of the kitchen.
• Prepare and cook high-quality dishes consistently to specification.
• Help manage kitchen staff, training, and development.
• Maintain excellent food hygiene, health and safety, and cleanliness standards.
• Assist where required with stock control, ordering, and minimising waste.
• Ensure all food is produced efficiently and presented to a high standard.
• Deputise for the Head Chef in their absence.

What We're Looking For

• Previous experience as a Sous Chef or strong Junior Sous Chef ready for the next step.
• Passion for fresh food and quality cooking.
• Strong organisational and leadership skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of food safety and HACCP procedures.
• A positive attitude and team-focused approach.

What We Offer

• £36,000 per annum plus TRONC
• 35% discount on all drinks, food and accommodation across Balfour pubs and Balfour Winery
• Flexible hours to suit you and your work/life balance
• Accredited members of “Wellbeing Promise”, meaning we are an employer who really does care (www.wellbeingpromise.co.uk)

Additional Information

Due to the operational needs of the business, you may be required to work at other Balfour sites from time to time as business requirements dictate. Flexibility to travel between sites when required is therefore essential.

At Balfour Hospitality, we value diversity and encourage applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If there are any reasonable adjustments we can make to help you perform at your best throughout the recruitment process, please email kerry@balfourhospitality.com to discuss your requirements.