We’re looking for a passionate and talented Sous Chef to join the opening kitchen team of a beloved country pub near Reigate in the Surrey Hills. You don’t need to have worked as a sous chef before, this is the perfect job for an ambitious chef looking to progress their career and be part of a brand-new kitchen and play a key role in shaping its success from day one.
Our vision is to become one of the best food pubs in Surrey, serving seasonal, ingredient-led British food that’s generous, accessible, and rooted in outstanding produce. This isn’t fine dining or overcomplicated cooking – it’s about brilliant food, great hospitality, and consistency at the highest level.
Why this role?
Be part of the opening team: You’ll join at the very beginning, helping to establish the kitchen culture, systems, and standards that will define the pub.
Learn and grow: You’ll work closely with the Head Chef, supporting day-to-day operations and gaining invaluable experience running a kitchen to the highest standards.
A supportive environment: This is a calm, respectful, and professional kitchen – the right place for someone who values teamwork, collaboration and learning.
Career progression: We’re looking for someone ambitious -a CDP or junior sous ready to take the next step, or an experienced sous chef looking to join a new team. You’ll be working under a Head Chef who values mentoring, growth, and long-term development.
Pay and accommodation: £30,000 – £37,000 salary (live-out). Live-in self contained unit with private bathroom and kitchenette available.
Location: Set in a picturesque Surrey Hills village, with nearby stations offering trains to central London in 30–50 minutes.
About you
We’re not fixed on years of experience or a specific background — attitude, passion, and drive matter most. You’ll thrive here if you:
- Are excited by the opportunity to build something from the ground up.
- Care deeply about ingredients, provenance, and seasonality.
- Want to work in a respectful, calm, and professional kitchen.
- Have strong cooking ability, technical skill, and attention to detail.
- Take pride in teamwork, consistency, and high standards.
This is a rare opportunity to join a new opening from day one and help shape what we believe will become one of Surrey’s best dining pubs.