Job Role Summary:
As a Sous Chef with Neilson Winters, you will play a crucial role supporting the Head Chef in managing kitchen operations and training the culinary team. You will step up to lead the kitchen in the Head Chef’s absence, ensuring all food preparation meets the highest standards of quality, consistency, and presentation.
With a strong focus on HACCP compliance and allergen management, you will help create a safe and enjoyable dining experience that delights our guests. We seek approachable, motivated individuals who thrive in team environments and are passionate about culinary excellence. This position offers excellent career progression opportunities towards becoming a Head Chef within Neilson.
Key Responsibilities and Tasks:
- Assist in delivering a menu aligned with operational requirements and budget constraints.
- Ensure strict adherence to Neilson allergen procedures and HACCP guidelines at all times.
- Consistently meet or exceed customer service quality (CSQ) targets.
- Develop, design, and train kitchen staff to produce varied and high-quality à la carte dishes.
- Promote and maintain a safe and hygienic working environment for all kitchen staff.
- Foster a customer service-focused culture, encouraging direct guest feedback.
- Support the Head Chef in implementing training programs and adjusting menus as needed throughout the season.
- Assist in purchasing quality ingredients within budget guidelines.
- Maintain professionalism while managing food costs and wastage effectively.
- Monitor, record, and minimize all wastage and breakages per company procedures.
- Build positive, collaborative working relationships across departments.
- Demonstrate thorough knowledge of the Neilson product and actively cross-sell holidays to guests where appropriate.
- Implement robust procedures to prevent stock loss and revenue leakage.
- Undertake additional duties as requested by management to support smooth kitchen and hotel operations.
Qualifications and Experience Required:
- GCSE level education or equivalent.
- Formal catering qualifications.
- Current Food Hygiene certificate and HACCP training.
- Proven team management experience.
- Minimum two years’ experience designing and presenting hot/cold buffet menus and à la carte dining.
- Experience catering for large groups, ideally within a hotel setting.
- Experience working overseas is desirable.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Knowledge of the travel or hospitality industry is a plus.
- Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
- Consistently high standards of food quality and service.
- Lead by example and motivate your team effectively.
- Strong communication skills with both staff and guests.
- Versatile experience across different culinary styles.
- Ability to train, develop, and inspire team members.
- Flexible with working hours and adaptable to operational needs.
Personal Qualities:
- Professional appearance with excellent grooming standards.
- Exceptional personal hygiene.
- Hardworking, self-motivated, and thrives under pressure.
- Well-organized, punctual, and flexible.
- Honest, approachable, and friendly demeanour.
Working for Neilson
There is much to be gained from working anywhere within the Neilson programme. The people skills, the life skills, the confidence you'll develop, and the overall experience will stay with you forever.
You will have the time of your life, make a bunch of new friends, enjoy mad adventures, and create stories you'll be telling for years.
The package includes:
- Staff accommodation provided on a shared basis - No bills to stress about
- Discounted rates on seasonal lift passes - Payment plans available
- Meals provided while on duty
- Travel to and from the resort, within Europe (subject to our staff travel policy)
- Visa & permits if applicable (UK Passport holders)
- Full training, including E-learning packages
- Uniform specific to your job role
- Allocated days off
- Mate's rates & family holiday discounts
- Emergency medical & dental insurance
- 24/7 access to Emergency Assistance Support – Independent mental health support service
- Staff discount on resort bars & spas
Please note: All Neilson staff are DBS-checked.
