The Sous Chef is the senior support leader in the Kitchen (Back of House), responsible for helping to run daily kitchen operations and maintaining high standards of food quality, consistency, speed, hygiene, and team discipline. In a restaurant, club, or lounge environment, the Sous Chef acts as the direct extension of the Head Chef or Executive Chef, ensuring the kitchen performs smoothly during service and that every dish leaves the pass to the required standard.
- Role purpose:
The Sous Chef supports the leadership, organisation, and control of the kitchen. They help translate the chef’s vision into consistent execution, manage the line during service, and step in to lead the kitchen when senior chefs are absent. The role is critical in keeping the operation efficient, calm, and commercially focused, especially during busy service periods.
- Where the role sits / reporting line:
The Sous Chef sits directly below the Head Chef or Executive Chef and above line cooks, commis chefs, and kitchen porters within the kitchen hierarchy. They report to the Head Chef or Executive Chef and may also coordinate closely with the Restaurant Manager, Bar Manager, or Operations Manager to align kitchen output with guest experience and service timing.
- Key areas of responsibility:
- Overseeing prep, service, and kitchen mise en place
- Supervising and coaching kitchen team members
- Maintaining food quality, portion control, and presentation standards
- Monitoring stock usage, waste, and ordering support
- Enforcing food safety, hygiene, and cleaning procedures
- Assisting with scheduling, training, and performance feedback
- Supporting menu development, specials, and kitchen innovation
- Resolving service issues quickly and professionally during peak periods
- Type of person who succeeds in the role:
A successful Sous Chef is highly organised, hands-on, and composed under pressure. They are technically skilled, detail-oriented, and able to lead by example while motivating others. They communicate clearly, manage time well, and maintain standards without losing pace. Strong teamwork, resilience, and a genuine commitment to excellence are essential for success in this role.