Reporting To: Head Chef
Works With: Head Chef, General Manager, Assistant Operations Manager, Venue Sales Manager, Financial Controller
Hours of Work: 40 Hours per Week (flexibility required)
Salary: 28K - £34K p/y (depending on experience)
About The Motorist
The Motorist is Yorkshire’s premier destination for motoring enthusiasts. A place where great food, events, and automotive passion come together. We’re more than just a venue; we’re a community hub celebrating craftsmanship, hospitality, and experience.
Job Objective
To support the Head Chef in delivering exceptional food and kitchen operations at The Motorist.
You will play a key role in the day-to-day running of the kitchen, combining strong hands-on cooking ability with leadership during service. As second-in-command, you will help drive standards, consistency, and efficiency, and take full responsibility for the kitchen in the absence of the Head Chef.
Key Responsibilities
§ Culinary Excellence
§ Work actively on a section during service while supporting overall kitchen operations.
§ Support the Head Chef in delivering high-quality food preparation and presentation.
§ Assist in the development and execution of seasonal and special menus.
§ Ensure all dishes meet quality and presentation standards before leaving the kitchen.
§ Maintain consistency across all services.
§ Support occasional off-site catering and events.
Operational Management
• Support rota planning and ensure appropriate staffing levels during service.
• Place orders independently in line with Head Chef guidelines and cost targets.
• Manage day-to-day stock control, rotation, and wastage.
• Assist with stocktakes and maintaining cost of sales.
• Ensure the kitchen maintains EHO 5-star hygiene standards at all times.
• Carry out equipment checks and report maintenance issues.
• Maintain full compliance with HACCP, COSHH, Natasha’s Law 2021, and Health & Safety standards.
Leadership & Team Support
• Lead from the front during service, setting the pace, standards, and culture.
• Supervise and coordinate the kitchen team during busy service periods.
• Train, mentor, and develop junior chefs and kitchen staff.
• Delegate tasks effectively to ensure smooth service and prep.
• Step up to run the kitchen in the absence of the Head Chef.
Business Performance
• Support the Head Chef and management team in achieving financial targets.
• Contribute ideas to improve efficiency, food quality, and profitability.
• Work with suppliers and ensure consistency in ingredient quality.
Brand & Representation
• Work closely with front-of-house and events teams to deliver seamless service.
• Uphold company values and maintain a professional, positive kitchen culture.
Person Specification
Essential:
• Proven experience as a Sous Chef or strong Junior Sous / Senior CDP ready to step up.
• Strong cooking ability with a hands-on approach to service.
• Ability to lead a team while working on the pass or a section.
• Good knowledge of stock control, ordering, and kitchen operations.
• Solid understanding of HACCP, COSHH, and food safety regulations.
• Flexible approach to working hours, including weekends and events.
Desirable:
• Experience contributing to menu development.
• Experience with events or off-site catering.
• Knowledge of Yorkshire’s food scene and suppliers.
Benefits
• Opportunity to grow within a strong kitchen team
• Work closely with an experienced Head Chef
• Supportive, dynamic working environment
* Preferable working hours