Overview
We are seeking a talented, passionate and driven Sous Chef to lead and support our Conferencing & Banqueting kitchen, delivering exceptional dining experiences for elegant weddings, gala dinners, corporate events, and private celebrations.
If you love delivering exceptional food, and being part of memorable guest experiences, this could be your next exciting move. This is an opportunity to showcase excellence in every dish, bring innovative ideas to our event menus, work collaboratively within a high-performing team, and lead with integrity in everything you do. The successful candidate will combine strong leadership skills, creative menu execution, and operational excellence to ensure seamless service for high-volume and high-profile events.
This is a full-time role, working 45 hours per week on a shift rota, which include 08.00-17.00 and 11.00-22.00. Due to the rural location at the Bowood Estate, Calne, reliable transport is required. Free on-site parking is provided. Easily commutable from Chippenham, Devizes, Trowbridge, Swindon and surrounding Wiltshire areas.
Key responsibilities
* Support the Head Chef in leading all banqueting kitchen operations.
* Deliver consistent, high-quality dishes to 4-star standards across all events.
* Manage food production, stock control, and cost efficiency maintaining GP targets.
* Work closely with events and front-of-house teams to ensure seamless service.
* Lead, train, and motivate the kitchen team.
* Ensure all food preparation complies with food safety regulations and HACCP standards.
* Support wider kitchen operations when required.
The Sous Chef will play a pivotal role in upholding the hotel’s reputation for excellence in conferencing and event catering.
Ideal candidate
* Proven experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Chef de Partie in a 4-star or 5-star hotel or similar high-volume environment.
* Strong background in conferencing, banqueting or large scale event catering (200 covers).
* Excellent organisational and time-management skills.
* Strong leadership and communication abilities.
* Sound knowledge of food cost control and kitchen financials.
* Culinary qualification (NVQ Level 3, City & Guilds, or equivalent preferred).
* Food Safety Level 3 certification (or equivalent).
* Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and holidays.
Benefits
* 31 days annual leave including Bank Holidays
* Uniform provided
* Meals on duty
* Pension scheme
* Free on-site parking
* Free entry to Bowood House and Gardens during open season
* Hugely discounted Golf Membership after probationary period
* Discounted spa treatments and 50% off Templespa products
* Employee Assistance Programme via Hospitality Action
* Company events and supportive team culture
Bowood Estate is one of Wiltshire’s leading luxury destinations, combining a 4-star hotel, award-winning spa, and championship golf course in a stunning countryside setting. We are proud of our reputation for exceptional hospitality, memorable weddings and events, and a warm, professional service culture. If you are a passionate Sous Chef who thrives in busy, high-standard event kitchen and wants to be part of a respected luxury estate, we would love to hear from you.
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