Position OverviewThe Senior Sous Chef at Dunmore House Hotel will work directly with Manuel, the Executive Head Chef, whilst taking on specific leadership responsibilities to develop towards a future Head Chef role. This position combines traditional Sous Chef duties with structured exposure to higher-level kitchen management, offering a unique development opportunity for an ambitious culinary professional.Ideal Candidate ProfileWe are seeking an ambitious, internationally-minded culinary professional who thrives in diverse, high-energy kitchen environments. This role offers a rare opportunity to develop your career in a unique Irish setting that combines Michelin Guide recognition with real-world versatility.Why This Opportunity Is Perfect For YouMichelin Guide Experience: Gain valuable experience working in a Michelin-listed establishment, learning refined techniques and elevated culinary standards that will distinguish your career globally.Diverse Culinary Challenges: Master multiple culinary disciplines in one role – from intimate fine dining to large-scale banqueting (weddings and galas for up to 250 guests) and relaxed bar food service. This breadth of experience is invaluable for future Head Chef roles.Innovation & Creativity: Work with fresh, locally-grown produce from our permaculture kitchen gardens, exploring innovative dishes that blend international influences with Irish ingredients. Your Asian culinary perspective will be particularly valued in menu development.Cultural Exchange: Join an international kitchen team in Ireland, bringing your unique culinary heritage whilst learning European techniques and Irish hospitality traditions.Winter Break Advantage: The 8-week paid closure period (January & February) is ideal for overseas candidates – return home to visit family, explore other culinary cultures, or simply recharge. You'll continue to receive full salary during this time.Structured Career Development: Unlike typical Sous Chef roles, this position offers documented mentorship with clear progression milestones – perfect for building a verifiable track record as you develop towards Head Chef level.Who Will Excel In This RoleChefs from Asian or international backgrounds with strong classical training who are passionate about exploring modern European and Irish cuisineProfessionals who enjoy variety and challenge – comfortable moving between refined plating for intimate dinners and managing high-volume banquet serviceAmbitious culinary leaders eager to gain comprehensive kitchen management experience in a supportive, mentored environmentThose seeking a genuine career investment – not just a job, but a documented pathway to Head Chef credentials recognised internationallyChefs who value work-life balance and the unique opportunity for extended paid time off to maintain connections with homeIf you're ready to expand your culinary repertoire, develop leadership skills, and gain experience that will set you apart in the international hospitality market, this role offers an exceptional platform for your ambitions.Key ResponsibilitiesTraditional Sous Chef DutiesDaily Operations: Assist in managing daily kitchen operations, ensuring smooth service delivery and high-quality standards.Food Preparation: Oversee food preparation, plating and presentation according to established standards.Quality Control: Maintain consistent food quality across all dishes, conducting regular checks throughout service.Service Leadership: Lead kitchen service during designated shifts, ensuring timely execution and coordination between stations.Health & Safety: Uphold strict food safety standards and ensure compliance with health regulations.Development Path ResponsibilitiesStaff Management: Take primary responsibility for kitchen staffing matters, including rota creation, absence management, and first-line response to staffing issues.Team Leadership: Develop and implement strategies to foster a positive kitchen culture, addressing minor conflicts and promoting teamwork.Training Delivery: Deliver training sessions to junior kitchen staff, developing your coaching and mentorship abilities.Menu Input: Collaborate with the Executive Head Chef on menu development, contributing ideas and receiving guidance on menu planning principles.Guest Experience: Work with the Executive Head Chef to identify and implement ways to exceed guest expectations through culinary excellence.Professional Development FocusStructured Mentorship: Receive direct mentoring from the Executive Head Chef with regular skills assessment and feedback.Leadership Coaching: Access to professional Leadership & Teams Coach to develop management capabilities.Operational Shadowing: Scheduled opportunities to shadow the Executive Head Chef in higher-level management duties.Progressive Responsibility: Gradual increase in management responsibilities as skills develop, with clear milestones for progression.Development FrameworkThis role includes a structured development pathway towards Head Chef capabilities:AreaInitial ResponsibilityDevelopment PathStaff RotasCreating weekly schedules with supervisionProgress to independent rota managementTeam LeadershipDay-to-day team coordinationDevelop advanced conflict resolution and team building skillsMenu PlanningInput on specific menu itemsProgress to section menu design with guidanceQuality ControlMaintaining standards during serviceDevelop systems for consistent quality across all shiftsFinancial AwarenessBasic cost control awarenessProgress to understanding full P&L implications of kitchen decisionsRequired Skills & QualificationsMinimum 3-5 years' Sous Chef experience in a quality kitchen environmentPrevious experience in a mid-leadership position (e.g., Experienced Sous Chef )Strong culinary skills with attention to detail & presentation, and a passion for delivering excellent food & serviceClear understanding of kitchen management principlesExcellent communication and interpersonal skillsRelevant culinary qualifications and food safety certificationsGenuine ambition to progress to Head Chef levelDesired QualitiesPassionate about culinary excellence, innovation, and utilising the fresh produce grown using permaculture principles by our in-house horticultural team in our very own "Kitchen Gardens"Natural leadership ability with a positive, team-oriented approachOpen to feedback and continuous professional developmentWell-organised with strong attention to detailResilient under pressure with excellent time managementCustomer-focused with a genuine desire to exceed expectationsDevelopment SupportThe successful candidate will receive comprehensive support to develop Head Chef capabilities:Executive Head Chef Mentorship: Direct guidance from our experienced Executive Head Chef, In-house horticulture team and kitchen team colleagues.Professional Coaching: Access to our Leadership & Teams Coach for structured management developmentRegular Performance Reviews: Quarterly development discussions with clear progression milestones. Mapped, measured and minuted for your recordsExternal Training: Opportunities to attend relevant culinary and management coursesCareer Path Planning: Clear framework for progression to providing Head Chef Experience & ExposureSuccess MetricsPerformance in this role will be measured by:Quality and consistency of food produced during serviceEffectiveness of staff management and leadershipTeam satisfaction and retention ratesProgression against agreed development milestonesGuest satisfaction feedbackContribution to menu development and innovationSalary & BenefitsA competitive salary package will be offered based on experience and qualifications, including:Competitive base salary commensurate with experienceHoliday entitlement of 20+ daysPaid during 8 week winter shutdownStaff accommodation available if requiredMeals on dutyProfessional development fundingStaff discount programmeApplication ProcessQualified candidates should submit a CV and cover letter detailing their culinary experience and explaining their interest in this development opportunity. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a practical assessment and interview with the Executive Head Chef and hotel management.Job Type: Full-timePay: €40,000.00-€60,000.00 per yearBenefits:Company pensionAbility to commute/relocate:Clonakilty, CO. Cork: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)Experience:Sous Chef: 3 years (required)Language:English (required)Work Location: In personReference ID: Senior Sous ChefExpected start date: 02/03/2026