About Us
The Valiant Sailor is a characterful village pub just outside Folkestone, we took over in November 2025 and will be undergoing a £200k refurbishment in April, at which time we will also be maximising potential of the pub garden for summer.
We are building a quality, food-led offer centred around excellent pub classics, standout Sunday roasts, and launching a highly recognised ghost kitchen for April, alongside the refurbishment.
Due to growth in the business and the upcoming summer season, we are now looking for a strong Sous Chef to help drive the next stage of our food journey.
The Role
This is a hands-on Sous Chef role working closely with the Head Chef to deliver consistently excellent food.
Were looking for someone organised, reliable, and ambitious with genuine opportunity to grow quickly as the business develops for the right person.
You will be heavily involved in day-to-day service, prep systems, and maintaining high kitchen standards.
Key Responsibilities
Support the Head Chef in running day-to-day kitchen operations
Deliver high-quality pub and gastropub dishes during service
Take ownership of sections and services when required
Help execute our Sunday roast offer
Support the upcoming highly recognised ghost kitchen delivery
Assist with ordering, stock control, and prep planning
Maintain excellent food hygiene and kitchen standards
Help train junior team members as the kitchen grows
What Were Looking For
Essential:
Experience as Sous Chef or strong Chef de Partie ready to step up
Background in fresh food kitchens (pub, gastro, or casual dining)
Well organised with good prep discipline
Calm and reliable during busy services
Positive team player with good communication
Desirable:
Experience with high-volume service or burger concepts
Level 2 Food Hygiene (or a willingness to undertake training provided by the company)
Ambition to progress into a senior role
Local to Kent or able to reliably commute
Progression Opportunity
For the right candidate, there is genuine scope to grow quickly as the business expands. We are building a strong food reputation and want someone who can be part of that journey long-term.
What We Offer
Competitive salary (starting from £26,000 DOE + tips)
Supportive owner-operator business
Real opportunity to progress
Input into menu development as the business grows
Stable, year-round role
How to Apply
Please apply with your CV and a short note about why this role interests you.
We are interviewing on a rolling basis and keen to speak with strong candidates quickly.
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