Church of England
Lambeth, London
Mar 07, 2026
Full time
A Senior Sous Chef position is needed to assist the Executive head chef in the everyday running and organising of the kitchen and to line manage assistant chefs and kitchen porters. Menu planning, food ordering, stock control, and event delivery. This role is a fixed-term contract for one year, and the prospective post-holder is expected to commence in the role by April. Responsibilities Ensure that all the Lambeth Palace kitchen team are fully trained in the food safety management systems and procedures, implemented by the Executive Head Chef. Work under and closely with the Executive Head Chef to ensure that all statutory legislation is adhered to by ensuring that standards and controls for Health & Safety, food hygiene, risk assessments, COSHH, manual handling are carried out as per current legislation. To ensure that the agreed standards of food preparation and presentation are always supervised and adhered to. To maintain Lambeth Palace's five star 'Scores on the Doors' council rating. Maintain and develop a positive and collaborative relationship with all colleagues, giving direction when necessary. Ensure that kitchen timesheets are completed and submitted in a timely manner. Working within the HSE guidelines, the Senior Sous Chef will support the Executive Head Chef to ensure allergen training is provided to all hospitality staff. To ensure that food waste is minimised and Lambeth Palace's sustainability targets are met reducing our environmental impact. To deputise for the Executive Head Chef in their absence. Working with the Executive Head Chef on menu development, to plan nutritious and varied seasonal menus, taking into account special dietary requirements and the seasons of the Church. Ensure that kitchen stock levels are maintained, rotated where appropriate, and that any need for replenishment is identified. Maintain kitchen equipment inventories, and reporting shortages, damage or required replacements in a timely manner. To conduct daily briefings with any additional or agency kitchen staff, ensuring they understand what is required of them, as well as the desired quality and production output for the day. To work closely with the wider Lambeth Palace hospitality team to ensure that we remain competitive and in line with current trends. Essential Qualifications/Skills NVQ Level 3 or equivalent Food hygiene management experience (COSHH, HACCP). Allergen Training Knowledge/Experience Considerable experience operating different sections within the kitchen including pastry & baking. Experience in delivering fine-dining and banqueting catering. Skills & Abilities A 'can-do' attitude and an aptitude for solving problems as they arise. Ability to remain calm under pressure. Demonstrable experience cooking a mixture of 'high-end' à la carte food and home cooking, as required. Considerable experience with catering for events up to 500 guests. Experience of baking to a high standard. Excellent communication skills, both oral and written. Self-motivated with the ability to motivate others. A confident, helpful personality and professional representative for Lambeth Palace. A keen eye for detail and anticipating other people's needs. Personal Attributes Able to work flexibly, particularly evenings and occasional weekends. A sympathy with and interest in the Archbishop of Canterbury's ministry. Ability to support a culture of pride, ownership and desire to exceed expectation. Ability to foster a culture of flexibility. Ability to respond quickly and positively to changing requirements whether within the department or outside in order to meet demands and guest service needs. Discreet with the awareness and emotional intelligence to adapt working style and approach in different situations. This post is subject to a basic DBS check. Desirable Skills/Aptitudes The post holder should have a good working knowledge of Microsoft Office for day-to-day office administration. First Aid qualification Closing date for applications is Sunday 18 March at 23:55 pm.
