Sous Chef – Independent Country Inn, West Sussex South Downs, near Petworth | Up to £35,000 ~£10,000 tronc | ⏰ Wednesday–Sunday About the Venue This historic, 350-year-old country inn with rooms is tucked away in a beautiful village in the South Downs National Park. With log fires, stripped floorboards, and a magical garden complete with its own vegetable patch, it offers guests a relaxed, characterful setting that has earned recognition in leading food and travel guides. Menus are kept small and ever-changing, showcasing seasonal produce, local suppliers, foraged ingredients, and the kitchen’s own garden harvest. The Role We’re looking for a talented Sous Chef to join the close-knit kitchen brigade. Working alongside the Head Chef, you’ll play a key role in delivering a daily-changing menu, mentoring junior chefs, and ensuring smooth kitchen operations. Key responsibilities: Supporting the Head Chef with day-to-day management of the kitchen Leading service and ensuring high standards on every plate Mentoring the Chef de Partie, commis chefs and KPs Contributing creative ideas for dishes, specials, and menus Upholding health, safety, hygiene, and stock management standards The Package Salary: Up to £35,000 base approx. £10,000 annual tronc Schedule: Wednesday to Sunday, mostly split shifts Time Off: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays, plus the business closes for all school half terms Team: Head Chef, Sous Chef, Chef de Partie, commis chefs and KPs Environment: Independent, award-winning inn with a strong focus on seasonality, creativity, and relaxed high-quality dining About You You’ll be a chef with proven experience at Sous Chef or strong Junior Sous level in quality kitchens or gastro pubs. You’ll thrive in a small, supportive team, with a passion for: Cooking with seasonal, locally sourced, and foraged ingredients Leading and motivating a team in a positive, hands-on way Working to high standards in a relaxed, rustic environment Bringing creativity and ideas to a menu that changes daily How to Apply If you’re looking for a rare opportunity in hospitality that balances creativity, quality, and work-life balance, we’d love to hear from you.