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Searcys Sous Chef Opportunity
Searcys are seeking an outstanding Sous Chef to join one of our flagship restaurants at the National Gallery—an extraordinary collaboration with world-renowned Michelin-starred chef Giorgio Locatelli. Located within the beautifully refurbished Sainsbury Wing, this is a rare chance to be part of a truly iconic dining destination.
As Sous Chef, you will play a pivotal role in delivering exceptional culinary experiences that reflect both the Searcys and Locatelli standards of excellence. You’ll work closely with the Head Chef in leading the kitchen, driving creativity, and ensuring every dish leaves a lasting impression. Beyond this, you will inspire and mentor the junior brigade, shaping the next generation of culinary talent in a fast-paced, high-profile environment.
Set in the heart of Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery is home to one of the world’s most celebrated collections of Western European art, featuring over 2,300 masterpieces from artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Van Gogh, Turner, and Rembrandt. This unique setting offers not just a workplace, but an inspiring cultural backdrop that elevates every service.
This is more than a role—it’s an opportunity to be part of a landmark venue where world-class cuisine meets world-class art.
Benefits
As a Sous Chef you will receive the following industry-leading benefits:
- 50% discount across Searcys venues
- Enrolment into the Searcys pension scheme
- Up to 35 days annual leave (dependant on job role and location)
- Access to everyday discounts and communication portal
- Chef whites provided
- Employee assistance programme
- Meals provided on shift when working within one of our venues
- Quarterly chef incentives
- Annual celebration days
- Birthday off
- Opportunity to enroll on WSH chef academy
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Job Description
As a Sous Chef at Locatelli at the National Gallery you will be required to be passionate about fresh ingredients and have a knowledge of Italian cuisine. You will be supporting the Executive and Head Chef to manage the day-to-day service, whilst leading and mentoring the junior team to deliver high-end quality food.
Salary: up to £47,410 inclusive of Tronc
Working Hours: 5 days over 7
Gallery Opening Hours:
- 11:30 AM to 5:45 PM
- Extended hours on Fridays from 11:30 AM to 10:15 PM
- Extended hours on Saturdays from 11:30 AM to 8:15 PM
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee and assist in the preparation and presentation of all meals and service across the Restaurant.
- Lead and drive the brigade team in the planning and development of menus, dishes, and concepts.
- Create new menu specifications, including costing sheets.
- Provide guidance to the junior chefs and porters.
- Be responsible for ordering and managing food production.
- Control each section's food storage area, maintaining them to a high standard.
- Keep a record of food production volumes, waste, stock holding, and food costs concerns.
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Qualifications
- Be driven by people and delivering the highest quality of food.
- Exemplary kitchen management practices and being an ambassador for Searcys legacy brand.
- Innovative and inspiring culinary ideas for events and restaurant menus.
- Support Exec/Head Chef in creating a professional working environment for the team ensuring that company standards are maintained and that Client expectations are met.
- Previous experience as a Junior Sous Chef in Events, Hotel, or high-end restaurants.
- Excellent mentoring and communication skills.
- Able to demonstrate your analytical approach to problem-solving and excellent understanding of Health and Safety practices.
Additional Information
We are the oldest caterer in the UK, having been founded in 1847. Working with us will give you an opportunity to be part of some of London’s most prestigious events, gaining insights and mentoring from skilled and experienced colleagues, as well as getting a chance to be part of a storied legacy in the hospitality industry.
A career at Searcys means you are part of something special. We are an employer with a rich history and an established reputation which will provide you with an enormous sense of pride and belonging.
To find out more on the rich history of Searcys, please visit our website at www.searcys.co.uk.
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