Sous Chef - Banqueting

We are looking for an experienced and motivated Sous Chef – Banqueting to join Catering and Retail Services at the House of Lords. This is a key leadership role within a high‑end banqueting operation, supporting the delivery of large‑scale, fine‑dining events for Peers, distinguished guests, and high‑profile functions within one of the UK’s most prestigious institutions.

As Sous Chef – Banqueting, you will support the planning, preparation, and execution of formal banquets, receptions, and ceremonial events. You will supervise kitchen operations, lead and develop junior staff, and ensure the highest standards of food quality, presentation, hygiene, and operational efficiency are consistently maintained.

High‑End Banqueting in a

Truly Unique Setting

Working on‑site at Parliament, the banqueting kitchens support a wide range of high‑profile events, from formal dinners to large ceremonial occasions. This is a fast‑paced, detail‑driven environment where professionalism, leadership, and precision are essential. You will work closely with the Head Banqueting Chef, helping to deliver exceptional hospitality at the very heart of UK democracy.

You’ll be accountable to

• Assist the Head Banqueting Chef in the planning, preparation, and delivery of menus for formal banquets, receptions, and high‑profile events.
• Supervise kitchen operations during preparation and service, ensuring consistency, quality, and adherence to event specifications.
• Support dish costings, portion control, and budgetary compliance.
• Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, health & safety, and allergen legislation.
• Oversee the use of computerised food safety systems, including temperature probing, chilling processes, and fridge/freezer monitoring.
• Assist with stock management, ordering, and inventory control using computerised systems.
• Support the training, supervision, and development of junior kitchen staff.
• Promote a positive, professional kitchen culture and support basic HR‑related responsibilities.

If this sounds like something you would like to hear more about, please apply.

What we’re looking for

• Proven experience in a Sous Chef or senior kitchen role, ideally within high‑end banqueting or fine‑dining environments.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, HACCP, and allergen management.
• Experience using computerised stock control and food safety systems.
• Ability to lead teams and maintain high standards during large‑scale and high‑pressure events.
• Strong communication skills and a professional leadership style.
• Basic understanding of HR processes and a willingness to support people management.
• A recognised culinary qualification (e.g. NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Professional Cookery, or equivalent).
• Flexibility to work early mornings, evenings, and double shifts, in line with event and service requirements.
• There are occasional Saturday functions, they are to be covered on a rota basis.

It would be even better if you had

Experience working within a public sector, heritage, or ceremonial institution.

Knowledge of traditional British cuisine and formal dining protocols.

Familiarity with sustainable, inclusive, and ethical catering practices.

The job description provides full details about the role and what we are looking for.

What you’ll get in return

30 days’ annual leave, increasing to 35 days after one year’s service.

A generous pension scheme.

Access to the Parliamentary health and wellbeing programme.

A truly unique working environment — the opportunity to witness history in the making.

The work we do is vital to the House of Lords, and you will be a pivotal member of the team supporting its parliamentary, ceremonial, and operational functions. The House of Lords is the second chamber of the UK Parliament and complements the work of the

House of Commons to

Make laws.

Check and challenge the actions of the Government through questions and debates.

Investigate public policy and provide a forum of independent expertise.

Please complete your online application by 23:59 on Wednesday 20th May 2026.

Job offers are standardly offered at the minimum of the salary range.

If you require any reasonable adjustments during the application process, please contact: HLRecruitment@parliament.uk

The House of Lords Administration is committed to increasing diversity and maintaining an inclusive workplace culture. We welcome applications from all candidates with diverse characteristics, including different ages, caring responsibilities, disability, gender/sex, gender reassignment/trans, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race/ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation and socio-economic status. We welcome discussions about flexible working arrangements and reasonable adjustments.

Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme

Disability Confident

About Disability Confident

A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. For more details please go to Disability Confident.