Job Description

Situated in the heart of vibrant Granary Square, The Lighterman is a busy three-floor venue combining a modern pub, dining room, and canal-side terrace. Our kitchen is full of energy, working as a close-knit, experienced team to deliver high-quality, fresh food at volume.

We’re looking for an experienced Senior Sous Chef to become a trusted right hand to the Head Chef and confidently run the kitchen when they are away.

This is a key role in a fast-paced and supportive kitchen where standards matter just as much as our team. We’re looking for someone calm, organised, and reliable under pressure, someone who naturally leads by example and helps bring the best out of those around them.

You’ll have strong experience in 2 Rosette-level kitchens and a genuine love for well-executed British gastro-pub food, cooked from scratch with care and attention to detail. You’ll be confident with classical techniques and take pride in consistency, flavour, and presentation.

You’ll work closely with the Head Chef and Executive Chef on menus, development, and planning, and be comfortable adapting quickly while keeping the team focused, positive, and supported during service.

We’re looking for someone who understands how to balance leadership, knowing when to guide, support, correct, and encourage, and who enjoys being part of a team that works closely together to deliver great service.

You’ll also work hand in hand with the front-of-house team to make sure service runs smoothly and guests have a consistently great experience from start to finish.

The Ideal Candidate Will:

• Have strong experience in 2 Rosette-level kitchens

• Be confident running a kitchen in the Head Chef’s absence

• Have a real passion for British gastro-pub cuisine and seasonal cooking

• Be calm, organised, and steady under pressure

• Enjoy leading, supporting, and developing a large team

• Take pride in high standards of food, presentation, and hygiene

• Work closely with senior chefs on menu development and ideas

• Communicate well with front of house for smooth, joined-up service

• Lead by example and contribute to a positive, supportive kitchen culture

Perks & Benefits:

• A friendly, energetic, and supportive kitchen team

• Input into menus and regular tastings

• Everything made fresh from scratch using quality seasonal produce

• Hands-on, approachable ownership that understands kitchen life

• Staff meals & refreshments during shifts

• Group dining discounts across venues

• Team incentives and celebrations

• Staff referral scheme

• Stream access for early wage withdrawals

• Extra holiday day for each year of service (up to 5 years)

• Uniform provided and yours to keep after 6 months, including shoes