Junior Sous Chef

Daylesford Stays - a part of The Bamford Collection.

We provide experiences that embrace luxury escapism: understated elegance, indulgence and nurture.

The Fox in Lower Oddington is looking for a passionate Junior Sous Chef.

SALARY: £40,500 per annum OTE*

HOURS: Full Time, 48 hours per week.

ABOUT US

The Fox in Lower Oddington is a classic Cotswolds pub with a modern, funky twist. Whether you're here for the legendary Thursday pizza and DJ nights, the weekly live music, or just soaking up the vibes, The Fox is a true destination spot in the Cotswolds that will keep you coming back for more, open to all and loved by many.

We serve top-quality, flavoursome and familiar food. Inhabiting the farm to fork ethos with our organic produce sourced from our local Daylesford farms. Here you will find a laidback, stylish setting, with a bar team that’s as fun as they are friendly. It’s a place where guests feel at home and staff love to work.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As Junior Sous Chef, you’ll play a key role in supporting the Head Chef in delivering outstanding food and ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the kitchen. Working with fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from Daylesford Organic Farm, you’ll have the opportunity to be involved in menu development, help inspire and develop a talented kitchen team, and continue building your own culinary skills in a creative and supportive environment.

This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious chef looking to take the next step in their career within a business that champions sustainability, craftsmanship, and true farm-to-fork dining. If you thrive in a fast-paced kitchen, love working with exceptional produce, and are ready to grow within a passionate team, we’d love to hear from you.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support the smooth and efficient day-to-day running of the kitchen, maintaining exceptional food quality and service standards.

• Take responsibility for kitchen operations in the absence of the Head Chef, ensuring service excellence and team performance.

• Lead, motivate, train, and support the development of junior team members while continuing your own leadership growth.

• Ensure the highest standards of food hygiene, health and safety, and compliance are consistently maintained.

• Support cost control through effective stock management, waste reduction, portion control, and labour planning.

• Contribute to menu development, bringing creativity and supporting the testing and delivery of seasonal dishes.

• Act as a key communication link within the kitchen team, supporting daily planning and ensuring efficient operations during service.

SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS

• Previous experience working as a Chef de Partie or Junior Sous Chef within a professional kitchen environment.

• Proven experience supporting the management of a busy kitchen operation and assisting with kitchen leadership responsibilities.

• Demonstrated ability to lead sections effectively, coordinate service, and maintain high standards during fast-paced and high-pressure service periods.

• Strong understanding of food hygiene, health & safety, and kitchen safety procedures.

• Knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices, with a commitment to maintaining compliance at all times.

• Passionate about high-quality food and committed to delivering exceptional culinary standards while contributing to the overall success of the kitchen team.

• Calm, organised, and reliable, with the ability to perform effectively under pressure in a fast-paced kitchen environment.

• Proactive approach to problem-solving and confident decision-making during service.

• Able to take initiative while working collaboratively as part of a close-knit and supportive kitchen team.

• Demonstrates genuine enthusiasm for food and a strong commitment to quality, consistency, and attention to detail.

• Maintains professionalism, composure, and a positive attitude during busy and high-pressure service periods.

PERKS AND BENEFITS

• Discounts: Enjoy a range of discounts on our products, treatments, and dining experiences from day one

• £20 lunch allowance

• Local gym discounts

• Padel Discount

• Volunteering Days: One paid day per year to volunteer with a charity of your choice

• Private Medical: Subsidised private medical insurance through Bupa

• Pension Scheme: Pay up to 9 percent of your salary into your pension each month with a 4.5 percent contribution from us

• Life Assurance: Cover equivalent to one year of your annual salary

• Mental Health Support: 24 hour access to our Employee Assistance Programme

*The on target earning potential for this role is £42,500 per annum based on a 48-hour contract - comprising a base salary of £36,500, plus a qualified estimate of £6,000 in gratuities and service charge.

About gratuities and service charge:
Gratuities are paid on a pro rata basis. It is estimated that in 2026 full-time employees can expect to receive in the region of £4,000 in addition to their annual salary.