Leeds
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