Sous Chef - Main Kitchen

Location: On-site in Knutsford, Cheshire, North-West England (not remote)

Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere is one of the North West’s most distinguished luxury destinations. Nestled in the heart of the Cheshire countryside and surrounded by a championship golf course, the resort combines Fairmont’s world-renowned elegance with the warmth and character of its local heritage. Renowned for exceptional service and attention to detail, Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere offers guests an indulgent escape featuring world-class spa experiences, exceptional dining, and outstanding leisure facilities. Whether visiting for relaxation, celebration, or business, Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere is dedicated to creating unforgettable moments and delivering the very best in 5-star luxury hospitality.

Your purpose will be:

To support the Executive Head Chef in the smooth, efficient running of the Main Kitchen, ensuring all areas meet Fairmont standards. This role coordinates daily service, works closely with culinary leaders to resolve operational and staff queries, and delivers ongoing training to maintain high team performance. It also involves preparing and cooking dishes to meet business and guest expectations.

• To co-ordinate functions and activities throughout the Main Kitchen. 
• To assist the Executive Sous Chef and Executive Head Chef in quality levels of production and presentation
• To work actively in cost control and implementing standards
• To assist in people related matters
• To carry out departmental training, where necessary
• To deputise the Executive Sous and Executive Head Chef in their absence
• To control all aspects of food outlets in the Executive Sous and Executive Head Chef's absence
• To be actively involved in Health & Hygiene matters
• To promote quality throughout the kitchen in all areas of food
• To ensure that room service is of the best in quality, temperature and service
• To carry out daily work to exceed guest expectations
• To ensure the smooth running of the day-to-day operations in the kitchen
• To strive to deliver the highest quality of food and service
• To adhere to all legal requirements, regulations and guidelines
• To conduct departmental orientation for all new team members

Please note that we believe in flexibility and multi-skilling, and you may be asked to do different tasks from time to time to enable us to meet the needs of our guests and colleagues.

• Proven experience in a similar role, ideally within a luxury or high‑volume environment.
• Qualification in Hospitality Management/Food & Beverage preferred
• Experienced in all aspects of restaurant and banquet service.
• Minimum 3 years of relevant experience in a similar capacity with proven records in delivering results
• Excellent reading, writing and oral proficiency in English language

What is in it for you?

• Exclusive Discounts:
  • Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere, Spa and Golf discount
  • Fairmont, Raffles, and Accor Hotels (friends and family rates are included)
  • 20% off food and beverage in on-site restaurants
• Colleague restaurant
• Being part of The Mere Team – our culture is unique!
• You will benefit from training and development opportunities
• Competitive salary and benefits including pension
• 28 days of holiday including public holidays
• 1-5 days service award based on length of service
• Special rates for Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere colleagues and their friends & family and discount across Accor hotels worldwide
• And last but not least you will get to work with a team of EXTRAORDINARY people