Sous Chef

At KIBOU, we’re looking for an exceptional Sous Chef to be part of the opening of a new restaurant in Central Birmingham this summer!

KIBOU is an independent Japanese restaurant and bar with restaurants in Battersea, Cheltenham, Bristol, Solihull, Oxford and Cambridge.

The environments we create are opulent, vibrant and fun, and our primary focus is on growing a team of people who take pride in delivering what we believe is a truly standout experience for all our guests!

Our kitchens deliver a diverse menu showcasing a variety of Japanese cuisine, all handmade or hand-rolled fresh in the kitchen daily and our stringent sourcing policy ensures that we only ever use the freshest, best quality and most authentic ingredients, so our guests can enjoy a premium dining experience with each visit.

Each KIBOU has a dedicated sushi kitchen offering an extensive selection of handmade-to-order sushi and sashimi.

Planned to open in the summer of 2026 in the centre of Birmingham, you'll have your input into the design and layout of the kitchen and the opportunity to help build your kitchen team culture from day one.

Your day-to-day role will be to help manage the day-to-day running of the kitchen operations and the team, with motivation and commitment to deliver outstanding service. To support the Head Chef to lead the kitchen team from the front to create a fun, authentic and original dining experience that will support our core values.

At KIBOU, we’re looking for incredible individuals to come on a journey with us, helping to grow our small family of restaurants whilst delivering exceptional food and service to all of our guests. Being part of a small growing business, you’ll have the opportunity to get involved with menu development, bringing your own ideas to the table and helping us grow our offering.

Experience, Qualifications and Skills we need:

• Experience in Japanese cuisine preferred but not essential
• Ability to recruit, train and develop effective and passionate teams
• Track record of delivering sales growth through consistent food quality and service
• Effective labour cost management
• Track record of delivering budgeted food margins
• Flare for creative and authentic menu development
• Experience in running large teams of chefs
• Ensure legal compliance and health & safety are managed as required

We love our people and are thrilled to be growing our team!

KIBOU are a considerate and respectful employer, and we place team wellbeing at the heart of our operation.

We love our people and are thrilled to be growing our team!

Why work with us :

• A business with our people at its core, valuing individuals as much as the team
• A restaurant-led organisation that champions operational autonomy and the freedom to thrive, with opportunities to shape how the business evolves and grows.
• Personalised training programmes and development opportunities tailored to you
• 100% equal and transparent service charge policy
• Japanese culture & cuisine 101. Get to know Japanese food!
• Regular socials, including the annual KIBOU awards show and summer party
• Employee discounts when you dine in any of our restaurants
• Free meals cooked by your chefs, or generously discounted menu items on shift
• Professional confidential support with the wellness programme, Licensed Trade Charity
• Financial well-being with Hastee
• Enhanced Pension provision through Salary Exchange
• Recognised as being one of the Top 30 Best Places to Work in Hospitality 2025, by The Caterer