Job Description:
Job Title – Senior Sous Chef
Pay – £40k + KPI BONUS
Start date – 4th May 2026 (subject to change as the site is still being built)
Hours – 42.5 hours working 5 days out of 7
Location – KNEAD Elkstone - We are in a remote location, so before applying, please ensure you are able to get to us. The full address is: KNEAD Elkstone, Elkstone Studios, Cheltenham GL53 9PQ.
LARDON
We are a new Restaurant concept coming to the Cotswold: featuring European inspired small plates that are ingredient led and wood fired. This new concept will form a wider part of the already established and reputable food group which includes, KNEAD bakery as well as Jesse smith & WJ Castle Butchers. You'll be part of a vibrant all-day operation — serving breakfast and lunch seven days a week, with lively supper service on Friday and Saturday nights.
We are an independent, high-quality restaurant and bakery focused on premium baked goods, brunch, wood fired food, coffee, and delivering exceptional culinary experiences.
We are looking for an experienced Senior Sous Chef to support the Head Chef and help lead our kitchen teams across both LARDON and KNEAD. This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for maintaining our standards, mentoring the team, and inspiring a positive, high-performing kitchen culture.
We offer:
* Work-life balance with scheduled shifts
* Competitive salary with performance-based bonus potential
* 28 days holiday including bank holidays
* Daily lunches.
* Free barista coffee and organic teas
* Birthday off with a gift voucher
* Staff events including Summer BBQ and Christmas party
* Training and career development opportunities
* 50% KNEAD & LARDON discount and 20% discount with Jesse Smith& WJ Castle Butchers
* Internal schemes such as Refer a Friend and Employee of the Month
* Cycle-to-work scheme and blood donation voucher
* Opportunity to shape kitchen standards and influence menu development
You are an accomplished Sous Chef or Head Chef with experience in Michelin-starred, AA-awarded, or high-end hotel kitchens. You are passionate about food, a natural leader, and thrive in fast-paced, high-standard environments. You have a "can-do" attitude, excellent mentoring skills, and the ability to maintain and teach the standards we expect across our kitchens.
Main responsibilities
* Run the kitchen in the absence of the Head Chef across both LARDON and KNEAD
* Ensure food preparation and presentation standards are consistently upheld
* Maintain high standards of food storage and kitchen hygiene across both sites
* Train and mentor kitchen staff to uphold our operational and culinary standards
* Act as a culture leader, motivating and inspiring your team
* Support the Head Chef in operational management, menu delivery, and team development
If you are an experienced culinary leader, thrive in high-standard kitchens, and want to grow your career with us, we would love to hear from you
To apply, please email requesting an application form. Only completed application forms will be considered.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: Up to £40,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Employee discount
* On-site parking
Work Location: In person