Location
Birchgrove Pepperpot House, Godalming
Job Type
Full time
Contract Type
Permanent
Salary
£30,000
About Birchgrove
At Birchgrove, we’re creating something genuinely special – vibrant communities designed exclusively for people over 65, where later life can be full of connection, independence and joy. Food plays a huge part in that. It’s not just about service – it’s about moments of comfort, celebration, and bringing people together every day.
Pepperpot House is situated right in the heart of Godalming and offers something truly special – modern retirement apartments surrounded by historic streets, independent shops and the rolling Surrey hills beyond.
The Role
We’re looking for a warm, passionate and talented Sous Chef to join our kitchen team. Working closely with our Head Chef, you’ll help shape a dining experience that feels personal, fresh and full of care. This is a role for someone who loves good food, enjoys being part of a close-knit team, and values getting to know the people they cook for. At Birchgrove, you’re not cooking for covers – you’re cooking for residents. If you thrive in a kitchen where quality matters, creativity is encouraged, and relationships are at the heart of the work, we’d love to hear from you.
The Person
We’re looking for someone who is:
* Passionate about food and proud of every plate that leaves the kitchen
* Confident preparing fresh, seasonal dishes from scratch
* Calm, organised and able to juggle a busy service with a smile
* Naturally warm and friendly – someone who enjoys being part of a community
* Creative and open to new ideas, menus and ways of doing things
* A great communicator and supportive team player
* Committed to making a real difference to the lives of our residents
* Aligned with Birchgrove’s values and approach to hospitality
* Confident in following structured processes, including HACCP and food safety procedures
What You’ll Be Doing
No two days are the same, but you’ll be:
* Supporting the Head Chef to deliver delicious, thoughtful meals that residents genuinely look forward to
* Helping create a dining experience that feels welcoming, personal and high‑quality
* Playing a key role in preparation, cooking and service – keeping standards consistently high
* Bringing ideas to the table for seasonal menus, special events and new dishes
* Taking pride in kitchen organisation, stock, waste reduction and smooth daily running
* Keeping food safety, hygiene and compliance at the heart of everything you do
* Being part of a positive kitchen culture – collaborative, respectful and supportive
* Stepping up to lead the kitchen when needed during the Head Chef’s absence
Why You’ll Love Working Here
* Be part of something meaningful – food is central to community life at Birchgrove
* Room to grow – we invest in development and progression
* A supportive team environment – warm, professional and people‑first
* Great benefits, including:
o Complimentary lunch cooked by our chefs
o Health Care Cash Back Scheme
o Electric Car Scheme
o Competitive pay and perks
o Inclusive and welcoming culture – everyone belongs here
o A leading name in later living – proud to be setting the standard in the UK
* If you’re looking for a role where you can cook with purpose, build relationships, and be part of a community from the inside out, we’d love you to apply.
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