Daylesford Stays - a part of The Bamford Collection.
We provide experiences that embrace luxury escapism: understated elegance, indulgence and nurture.

EARNINGS: £40,500 per annum OTE*
HOURS: 48 hours per week

ABOUT US
The Bell in Charlbury is a laidback yet sophisticated modern British pub settled in a 17th Century Cotswolds building. Known as a hidden gem, it offers a warm, family-friendly space that opens into a dining experience focused on quality.

With 13 beautifully appointed rooms and visually stunning food with vibrant organic seasonal ingredients from Daylesford Farm, The Bell combines comforting dishes with culinary flair. Deeply rooted in the community, it regularly hosts events and workshops in collaboration with local organisations.

Under the guidance of Nathan Walker-Unwin: an integral figure in the opening of two acclaimed Daylesford pubs, The Bell fosters a culture where every team member is valued and every guest is welcomed like family.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As Junior Sous Chef, you’ll play a key role in supporting Jason Christie, Head Chef, in delivering outstanding food and ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the kitchen. Working with fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from Daylesford Organic Farm, you’ll have the opportunity to be involved in menu development, help inspire and develop a talented kitchen team, and continue building your own culinary skills in a creative and supportive environment.

This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious chef looking to take the next step in their career within a business that champions sustainability, craftsmanship, and true farm-to-fork dining. If you thrive in a fast-paced kitchen, love working with exceptional produce, and are ready to grow within a passionate team, we’d love to hear from you.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support the smooth and efficient day-to-day running of the kitchen, maintaining exceptional food quality and service standards.

• Take responsibility for kitchen operations in the absence of the Head Chef, ensuring service excellence and team performance.

• Lead, motivate, train, and support the development of junior team members while continuing your own leadership growth.

• Ensure the highest standards of food hygiene, health and safety, and compliance are consistently maintained.

• Support cost control through effective stock management, waste reduction, portion control, and labour planning.

• Contribute to menu development, bringing creativity and supporting the testing and delivery of seasonal dishes.

• Act as a key communication link within the kitchen team, supporting daily planning and ensuring efficient operations during service. 

SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS

• Previous experience working as a Chef de Partie or Junior Sous Chef within a professional kitchen environment.

• Proven experience supporting the management of a busy kitchen operation and assisting with kitchen leadership responsibilities.

• Demonstrated ability to lead sections effectively, coordinate service, and maintain high standards during fast-paced and high-pressure service periods.

• Strong understanding of food hygiene, health & safety, and kitchen safety procedures.

• Knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices, with a commitment to maintaining compliance at all times.

• Passionate about high-quality food and committed to delivering exceptional culinary standards while contributing to the overall success of the kitchen team.

• Calm, organised, and reliable, with the ability to perform effectively under pressure in a fast-paced kitchen environment.

• Proactive approach to problem-solving and confident decision-making during service.

• Able to take initiative while working collaboratively as part of a close-knit and supportive kitchen team.

• Demonstrates genuine enthusiasm for food and a strong commitment to quality, consistency, and attention to detail.

• Maintains professionalism, composure, and a positive attitude during busy and high-pressure service periods.

PERKS AND BENEFITS

• Discounts: Enjoy a range of discounts on our products, treatments, and dining experiences from day one

• Volunteering Days: One paid day per year to volunteer with a charity of your choice

• Private Medical: Subsidised private medical insurance through Bupa

• Pension Scheme: Pay up to 9 percent of your salary into your pension each month with a 4.5 percent contribution from us

• Life Assurance: Cover equivalent to one year of your annual salary

• Mental Health Support: 24 hour access to our Employee Assistance Programme
  

*The on target earning potential for this role is £40,500 per annum based on a 48-hour contract - comprising a base salary of £36,500, plus a qualified estimate of £4,000 in gratuities and service charge.

About gratuities and service charge:
Gratuities are paid on a pro rata basis. It is estimated that in 2026 full-time employees can expect to receive in the region of £4,000 in addition to their annual salary.

THE BAMFORD COLLECTION IS A GROUP OF CONSCIOUSLY MINDED LIFESTYLE BRANDS COMMITTED TO NOURISHING AND NURTURING PEOPLE AND PLANET.