Job Description

Purpose:

As Senior Sous Chef at Manchester United's world-class Training Ground, you will play a key leadership role within the culinary team, supporting the Head Chef in delivering exceptional, nutritionally balanced meals tailored for elite athletes and staff. This role demands culinary excellence, operational discipline, and a deep understanding of dietary requirements in a high-performance sports environment.

The Senior Sous Chef will assist in managing day-to-day kitchen operations, driving innovation in menu development, maintaining the highest food safety standards, in a motivated team committed to performance nutrition, service, and quality.

The Role:

Key Responsibilities:

Work closely with the Head Performance Chef and Club Nutritionists to produce nutritionally focused menus that support athletic performance, recovery, and well-being. Oversee kitchen operations at the Training Ground, including food preparation, service, stock management, and cleanliness. Lead, motivate, and develop junior kitchen staff, ensuring a culture of teamwork, discipline, and pride in delivery. Maintain the highest standards of food hygiene, allergen control, and safety protocols in line with HACCP and current legislation. Support the development of bespoke meals for individual players based on dietary plans or medical requirements. Take responsibility for quality control, presentation, portion control, and consistency across all meals served. Contribute to menu planning, innovation, and feedback sessions with chefs, nutritionists, and players. Support in the delivery of hospitality catering for coaches, staff, and visiting teams where applicable. Act as a senior figure in the absence of the Head Performance Chef, ensuring smooth operational continuity

The Person:

Skills & Experiences:

Essential:

NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery (or equivalent formal culinary qualification) Level 2/3 Food Safety and Hygiene Certificate Previous experience at Sous Chef level or above in a high-performance or fine dining environment Strong understanding of food allergens, sports nutrition, and specialised meal preparation Exceptional culinary skills with attention to detail, presentation, and nutritional value Excellent communication, mentoring, and interpersonal abilities Positive attitude, resilience, and discretion when working in a confidential, high-profile environment Highly organised with strong time management and the ability to perform under pressure Creative and dynamic approach to food innovation Holder of a full, valid passport, with the readiness and ability to travel internationally as required to support the team's operations and events.

Desirable:

Passion for nutrition and wellness in elite sports performance Experience working with nutrition-focused or bespoke dietary requirements

What We Offer:

At Manchester United, we recognise that our people are at the heart of our success. That's why we offer a range of rewards designed to support your professional and personal well-being:

Annual incentive scheme

Wellness Support

with access to mental health resources, digital health checks, and & nutritionists through Aviva Digicare+ Workplace

Exclusive Discounts

through our United Rewards platform, giving you access to exclusive deals from the club and partners

Gym Facilities

in our onsite locations and opportunities for regular social events and team-building activities

Enhanced family Leave Benefits

and an opportunity to purchase additional holiday days

Enhanced Career Development

with access to professional learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, and internal training programs

A Supportive Work Environment

that values diversity, equity and inclusion, and individual growth

Our Commitment to You:

At Manchester United, we believe that a diverse and inclusive environment makes us stronger. We are committed to building a team where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Diversity, equity and inclusion are at the core of our recruitment strategy, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Ready to Join Us?

If this sounds like the perfect role for you, please submit your application by Thursday 10th July 2025

Manchester United is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, and as part of this commitment, all candidates will undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check and reference checks.

If you need any adjustments to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, please feel free to contact us, and we will be happy to discuss them with you.

It is unlawful to employ a person in a UK-based job who does not have permission to live and work in the UK. You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to you before applying for any of our roles.