Job description

A Role That Brings Heritage, Craft & Culinary Excellence Together – The Apsley Identity

At Kimpton Sevn Dubai, Apsley is more than a restaurant—it is a contemporary dining destination inspired by the elegance of British aristocratic tradition and the warmth of European bistro culture.

Inspired by Apsley House, the historic London residence of the First Duke of Wellington, known as "Number One, London," the concept reflects timeless sophistication, understated luxury, and exceptional hospitality. The menu seamlessly blends contemporary British cuisine with Mediterranean influences, evolving throughout the day from breakfast to dinner.

We are looking for a Sous Chef who can support this vision through exceptional execution, operational leadership, and culinary excellence while working closely alongside the Chef de Cuisine.

You are not only supporting a kitchen—you are helping shape an experience that balances heritage, craftsmanship, and contemporary relevance.

One Kitchen. One Heritage. One Timeless Experience.

At Apsley, dining is elegant, welcoming, and thoughtfully curated.

As Sous Chef, you help ensure:

• Exceptional execution of contemporary British and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine
• Consistent delivery of refined dishes rooted in quality and craftsmanship
• Strong daily leadership and support of the kitchen brigade
• Seamless execution across all meal periods and service occasions

You help create a kitchen defined by precision, consistency, and timeless hospitality.

Why This Role Matters

The Apsley represents a modern interpretation of British dining culture.

In this role, you support the Chef de Cuisine by:

• Delivering the Apsley's culinary philosophy through daily execution
• Supervising kitchen operations and maintaining culinary standards
• Supporting brigade development, engagement, and performance
• Ensuring consistency across breakfast, lunch, afternoon, and dinner experiences
• Maintaining operational discipline while fostering creativity and collaboration

You are a key contributor to the success of the dining experience every day.

Be the Leader Behind the Experience

You are organised, hands-on, and passionate about culinary excellence.

Through your leadership, you will:

• Support the daily operation of the Apsley kitchen
• Lead service periods and ensure smooth kitchen execution
• Supervise food preparation, presentation, and quality standards
• Coach and develop junior culinary talent
• Maintain consistency, efficiency, and professionalism throughout service

Your influence helps shape the guest experience with every service.

What We'll Support You to Do

Bring Culinary Heritage to Life

• Execute menus that celebrate British and Mediterranean influences.

Support a High-Performing Kitchen Brigade

• Develop talent and foster a culture of learning and collaboration.

Maintain Operational Excellence

• Uphold quality, consistency, and food safety standards.

Deliver Memorable Dining Experiences

• Ensure every dish reflects the identity and standards of Apsley.

The Gig

Reporting to the Chef de Cuisine, the Sous Chef supports the leadership of the Apsley kitchen at Kimpton Sevn Dubai, helping deliver a sophisticated, contemporary, and memorable dining experience.

• The Opportunity: Be part of a signature restaurant inspired by British heritage and European bistro culture
• The Focus: Culinary execution, operational excellence, and team development
• The Impact: Help create a dining experience that is elegant, approachable, and consistently exceptional

You will play a critical role in bringing the Apsley vision to life.

Stay Human

At Kimpton, timeless hospitality is always personal.

In this role, you will:

• Lead with professionalism, integrity, and positivity
• Support a culture of collaboration, learning, and respect
• Encourage craftsmanship, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Bring energy and passion into every service

Every plate reflects the spirit of Apsley—elegant, refined, and welcoming.

Your Day-to-Day

No two days are the same; your responsibilities will span operational, leadership, and culinary activities, including but not limited to:

Kitchen Operations

• Support daily culinary operations across all meal periods
• Ensure smooth service execution from breakfast through dinner
• Maintain consistency in flavour, presentation, and quality standards

Culinary Leadership

• Supervise, train, and motivate culinary team members
• Conduct daily briefings and service preparations
• Support team engagement and performance management

Menu Execution & Quality Control

• Execute contemporary British and Mediterranean-inspired menus
• Ensure consistency and attention to detail across all dishes
• Maintain strict quality and presentation standards

Cost Control & Kitchen Management

• Assist with food cost management and inventory control
• Monitor wastage and support purchasing procedures
• Maintain productivity while upholding premium standards

Hygiene & Compliance

• Maintain HACCP, food safety, and hygiene standards
• Ensure compliance with operational and regulatory requirements
• Participate in audits and corrective action plans

Pre-Opening Support

• Support kitchen setup and operational readiness
• Assist with menu testing and recipe standardisation
• Participate in training programmes and mock services
• Contribute to SOP implementation and opening preparations

What Success Looks Like

• Consistent delivery of the Apsley dining experience
• Exceptional food quality across all meal periods
• A motivated and engaged kitchen brigade
• Strong operational discipline and service execution
• Positive guest feedback and team performance
• Successful pre-opening readiness and launch

Who This Role Is Perfect For

• Passionate culinary professional ready for a leadership role
• Experience in British, European, Mediterranean, or bistro-style concepts
• Strong operational and service execution skills
• Team-oriented leader with a hands-on approach
• Detail-focused and committed to culinary excellence
• Passionate about hospitality, learning, and development

What We Need From You

Ideally, you bring some (or all) of the following qualifications and experience.

Education

• Culinary qualification or equivalent professional certification preferred