Senior Sous Chef — The Lifeboat Inn, Thornham
If you know the North Norfolk coast, you probably know The Lifeboat. It’s one of those places people talk about — full of history, warmth and a loyal mix of locals and long‑standing visitors. With its established reputation and a kitchen focused on quality, seasonality and consistency, The Lifeboat is an inspiring place to grow your craft.
We’re looking for a Sous Chef who can support the Head Chef in leading the kitchen day to day — someone with skill, calmness and the confidence to take charge when needed. You’ll help shape the food offering, maintain high standards and support a team proud of what they deliver.
If you’re the kind of chef who enjoys being part of a respected coastal property with plenty of opportunity to develop, this could be a great fit.
What the Role’s All About...
As Sous Chef, you’ll play a key role in the running of the kitchen — supporting the Head Chef, guiding junior members of the team, and ensuring every plate reflects the hospitality The Lifeboat is known for.
You’ll:
* Support the Head Chef in menu execution, prep and service
* Run the kitchen in the Head Chef’s absence with confidence and composure
* Help deliver a consistent, well‑executed food offering
* Maintain excellent food safety, hygiene and kitchen standards
* Be involved in stock management, ordering and waste control
* Train, support and mentor junior chefs
* Work closely with the wider management team to ensure smooth service
* Bring ideas, enthusiasm and reliability to a busy, quality‑led kitchen
About You...
You’re a hands‑on chef with a steady, organised approach and a genuine passion for producing good food. You work well in a team, you stay calm under pressure, and you take pride in delivering a reliable, consistent service.
You’ll bring:
* Experience as a Sous Chef or a strong CDP ready to step up
* A solid understanding of prep, service and kitchen operations
* A passion for fresh, seasonal food
* Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset
* A focus on standards, organisation and consistency
* A desire to grow within a supportive and quality‑driven property
Why Join Chestnut?
Chestnut is a collection of premium properties and inns across East Anglia, each with its own identity. The Lifeboat is one of our most recognisable coastal properties — loved by locals, trusted by visitors and full of opportunity for people who enjoy being part of a tight‑knit team.
You’ll be supported by an experienced leadership team, given room to grow, and part of a business that invests in people, skill development and progression.
Benefits & Perks
* Performance bonus schemes
* Team & individual incentive trips
* 50% discount on food across all Chestnut pubs
* Overnight stays from £75
* Friends & Family discounts
* Employee Assistance Programme
* Refer a Friend bonuses
* High‑street retail & travel discounts
* Wagestream access
* Accredited training & development pathways
Ready to take the next step in your kitchen career at a much‑loved coastal inn?
If this feels like the right opportunity for you, apply today — we’d really like to meet you.
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