Sous Chef

• Sous Chef – Balfour Winery

Location: Staplehurst, Kent Hours: Predominantly 9–5, 5 days a week with only two evening shifts per week (Friday & Saturday) and no breakfast shifts Balfour Winery, set in the heart of the Kent countryside and known for its award‑winning wines and exceptional dining, is looking for a talented Sous Chef to join our ambitious kitchen team. This is a rare opportunity to work in a high‑quality, creative environment while still enjoying a balanced and consistent schedule.

About the Role

As Sous Chef, you’ll support the Head Chef in delivering a modern, seasonal menu that reflects the character of our estate. You’ll help lead the kitchen team, maintain high standards of preparation and presentation, and contribute to the development of new dishes that showcase the best local produce.

This role is ideal for a chef who loves the craft but also values a healthier work–life rhythm. You’ll work mainly 9–5, with only two evening services per week—Friday and Saturday. There are no breakfast shifts, allowing you to focus on quality cooking without the early‑morning demands typical of hospitality.

• What You’ll Do
• Support the Head Chef in daily kitchen operations
• Lead and motivate the team during service
• Contribute to menu development and seasonal dish creation
• Ensure high standards of food quality, consistency, and presentation
• Maintain excellent food safety and kitchen hygiene practices
• Help train and mentor junior team members

What We’re Looking For A passionate, skilled chef with experience at Sous Chef level or a strong CDP ready to step up

• Creativity and a love for seasonal, local ingredients
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• A calm, organised approach to service
• A genuine interest in working within a winery setting

What We Offer

Predominantly daytime hours (9–5) only working 2 evenings a week (Friday and Saturday) Up to £42,000 including TRONC 35% discount on all drinks, food and accommodation across every Balfour site and Balfour Winery Flexible hours to suit you and your work/life balance Members of “Wellbeing Promise”, meaning we are an employer who really does care! (www.wellbeingpromise.co.uk) We welcome applications from a diverse range of individuals and will consider any reasonable adjustments to enable candidates to perform as well as possible during the recruitment process, please email kerry@balfourhospitality.com with any requests.