Junior Sous ChefManchester United

Junior Sous Chef

Application Deadline: 27 October 2026

Department: Operations

Employment Type: Permanent

Location: Manchester - Carrington Training Complex & Old Trafford

Description

At Manchester United, we believe that excellence on the pitch starts with excellence off the pitch. Our team thrives in a high-performance environment, united by a shared passion for success. We aim to elevate the standard of performance through collaboration and continuous growth, creating a space where everyone can contribute their best to our common goals.

We work together at our iconic Manchester United offices, enabling connection and innovation as we look ahead to what we can achieve as a global football club. We are excited to bring in passionate people who share our vision and drive for success.

As Junior Sous Chef at Manchester United’s world-class Training Ground, you will play an important role in supporting the delivery of exceptional, nutritionally balanced meals for elite athletes and staff. Working alongside the Head Performance Chef, Senior Sous Chef, Club Nutritionists and wider culinary team, you will help ensure the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and service.

This role provides an exciting opportunity to develop your culinary expertise within a high-performance sporting environment. You will support day-to-day kitchen operations, contribute to menu preparation and innovation, and help maintain a professional, safe and efficient kitchen that reflects the standards expected at Manchester United.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Head Performance Chef and Senior Sous Chef in preparing and delivering nutritionally focused meals that support athletic performance, recovery and well-being.
• Assist with the day-to-day operation of the kitchen, including food preparation, service, stock rotation and cleanliness.
• Take ownership of designated kitchen sections, ensuring high standards of food quality, presentation and consistency.
• Maintain food hygiene, allergen control and food safety standards in line with HACCP requirements and current legislation.
• Prepare meals in accordance with individual dietary requirements, nutritional plans and medical considerations.
• Support inventory management, stock control and ordering processes to minimise waste and maximise efficiency.
• Assist with menu preparation, recipe development and food innovation initiatives.
• Work collaboratively with chefs, nutritionists and other stakeholders to ensure an exceptional dining experience.
• Support the delivery of hospitality catering for coaches, staff and visiting teams when required.
• Provide guidance and support to Commis Chefs, Kitchen Assistants and other junior members of the team.
• Demonstrate flexibility to support team travel, events and other operational requirements where necessary.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

Essential:

• NVQ Level 2 or Level 3 in Professional Cookery (or equivalent formal culinary qualification).
• Level 2 Food Safety and Hygiene Certificate.
• Previous experience as a Chef de Partie or equivalent role within a high-quality hospitality, fine dining, hotel or sports environment.
• Strong understanding of food preparation techniques, kitchen operations and food safety standards.
• Knowledge of allergens, specialised dietary requirements and nutritional principles.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and work effectively under pressure.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• High attention to detail and commitment to producing food to exceptional standards.
• Positive attitude, willingness to learn and passion for continuous improvement.
• Ability to work in a confidential, professional and high-profile environment.
• 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:

• Experience working in a professional sports, performance nutrition or athlete-focused environment.
• Understanding of sports nutrition and its application within elite performance settings.
• Experience supporting bespoke dietary requirements and nutritionally focused menu delivery.
• Previous experience mentoring or supporting junior kitchen staff.
• Passion for innovation, nutrition and culinary excellence.

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 to reward your dedication and hard work
• 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) and an opportunity to purchase additional holiday days
• Electric Vehicle scheme via Octopus and cycle to work scheme
• Simplyhealth Cash Plan: Supporting you with your everyday healthcare needs
• 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 policies
• 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