Sous Chef / Senior Chef de Partie
 
No Late Nights | Better Work-Life Balance | Godalming, Surrey
 
Looking for a role where you can still cook great food – but without the late nights, split shifts and constant pressure?   
 
At Birchgrove, we’re doing things differently.
 
This is a Sous Chef / Senior Chef de Partie role within a calm, well-structured kitchen, where you can focus on quality, consistency and building relationships – rather than chasing back-to-back services.
 
Why this role is different

• No late nights
• Consistent shifts and better work-life balance
• Cooking fresh, seasonal food from scratch
• A calm, organised kitchen environment
• Time to focus on quality – not just speed

 
You’ll still be hands-on, leading, cooking and maintaining high standards – but within a setting that feels more structured, supportive and purposeful.
 
About Birchgrove
 
At Birchgrove, we create vibrant communities for people over 65, where food plays a huge part in daily life.

You’re not cooking for covers – you’re cooking for residents. That means building relationships, understanding preferences, and creating meals that genuinely matter.
 
Pepperpot House in Godalming is a beautiful, modern neighbourhood set in the heart of the Surrey Hills.
 
What you’ll be doing

• Supporting the Head Chef in delivering high-quality, fresh meals
• Preparing and cooking dishes from scratch
• Helping shape seasonal menus and specials
• Maintaining high standards in food safety and hygiene
• Supporting stock control, waste reduction and kitchen organisation
• Leading the kitchen when required

 
What we’re looking for

• Experience as a Sous Chef or strong Senior Chef de Partie
• Passion for fresh, seasonal food
• Calm, organised and reliable under pressure
• A team player who supports others
• Someone who enjoys being part of a community

 
Why join Birchgrove

• A genuinely supportive, people-first culture
• The chance to cook with purpose and make a difference
• Real opportunity for development and progression
• A stable, well-run kitchen environment
• Free meals on shift
• Healthcare cashback scheme
• Electric car scheme

 
If you’re looking for a role where you can step away from the usual hospitality pressures, but still take pride in great food and a well-run kitchen, we’d love to hear from you. Please feel free to drop in for a coffee and a chat if you are interested

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