We are a family-run UK business operating food and beverage outlets at airports, creating exceptional experiences for all our customers. We believe airport customers deserve better - we ARE here to delight. We are looking for a committed and enthusiastic individual to join our team as Sous Chef at Manchester Airport, leading our outlets to deliver exceptional food and outstanding customer service with a highly trained and motivated team. As Sous Chef, you will play a vital role in supporting the Senior Head Chef & Senior Sous Chef's, overseeing the kitchen's day-to-day performance while maintaining the highest standards of quality, hygiene, and efficiency. The Great Northern Market concept at Manchester Airport includes managing a kitchen brigade with six kitchens, offering a diverse range of cuisines such as fried chicken, smashed burgers, burritos, hand stretched pizza, Asian, Greek, and a breakfast menu. The venue has approximately 470 covers and operates from 3am to 10pm. This is an hourly paid role, and shifts may include early morning starts (e.g., 2 a.m.) or late finishes (e.g., the last flight), with no requirement for split or double shifts. If you\'re passionate about hospitality, enjoy managing teams, and want to make a significant impact, we\'d love to hear from you.
Role and responsibilities
* As part of the management team, manage all aspects of the kitchen, including stock control, food preparation, and ensuring compliance with hygiene, health and safety, and allergen protocols.
* Collaborate with the front of house team to deliver exceptional dishes for every guest and ensure the kitchen operates efficiently and profitably.
* Support the senior management to maintain consistently high service levels in line with company policies, driving sales and operational efficiency.
Main duties
* Ensure the department meets revenue and profit targets.
* Oversee, coach, and guide the team to continuously improve service while adhering to health and safety, food hygiene, food allergens and company specifications/policies.
* Motivate the team through positive communication to deliver excellent quality food in a timely fashion.
* Ensure the health, safety, and wellbeing of colleagues at all times.
* Keep senior management informed of any significant issues arising during shifts.
* Ensure confidentiality and act in accordance with data protection requirements when handling personal data.
What you\'ll have
* Level 2 Food hygiene certificate (desirable but not essential).
* Significant proven management experience in a kitchen environment, including staff training and development.
* Familiarity with airport-based hospitality (preferred but not essential).
* Demonstrable experience of delivering excellent food preparation services.
* Experience in delivering agreed menus to brand standards.
* Experience with procurement of stock through specified suppliers as needed.
* Proven track record of implementing continuous improvement initiatives.
* Good level of written and verbal communication skills.
* Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
* Strong communicator with a clear and supportive leadership style.
* Financially aware, with sound budget controls and effective stock management.
* Strong leadership skills, capable of motivating a team in a busy kitchen environment.
* Performance management skills to maximise individual potential through coaching.
* In-depth knowledge of health and safety requirements in a kitchen, including HACCP, COSHH, food allergens, equipment maintenance, and safety practices.
Personal qualities
* Resilient and able to deliver results in a fast-paced environment.
* Results-oriented and motivated by achieving stretching objectives.
* Calm and approachable under pressure.
* Passionate about food.
Company values and candidate requirements
* Our GRIT values (Growth, Respect, Innovation, Togetherness) guide behaviours; are you curious, passionate, and resilient?
* Responsible, hard-working and keen to help others. Willing to show up, be positive and have FUN.
* Provide proof of right to work in the UK and hold an Airport Security ID Pass (we will assist with this).
* The application process requires a valid passport, a criminal record check, and five years of personal and employment references.
Benefits
* Fully subsidised on-site airport parking
* Free meals while on duty at the site, from the "Staff Duty Meal" options
* Tronc (tips and gratuities distribution system) via an elected troncmaster
* 28 days annual leave (including Bank Holidays), increasing by 1 day a year up to 32 days
* NEST pension
* Wagestream (flexible pay access)
* Health & wellbeing cash plan, plus discounts and perks across hundreds of retailers
* Access to our Employee Assistance Programme for health and well-being support from day one
* Staff referral bonus scheme
#J-18808-Ljbffr