Pastry Sous Chef at Café Jikoni at the V&A East Museum in Stratford, East London Have an Impact at a Purpose-Driven Business At Jikoni, we are preparing to launch a pioneering hospitality and museum project with the V&A in Stratfords Olympic Park on the 18 th of April 2026. We are seeking kind, bright, and empathetic team members who are passionate about being part of something new and challenging, while also shaping the next exciting chapter of our purpose-driven business. Were seeking a talented and passionate Pastry Sous Chef to join our team. In this role, youll work closely with the Executive Chef and BOH team, playing an important part as a foundational member of our new kitchen team (opening April 2026). This is a hands-on role where youll support the development of a new restaurant, continue to learn and grow in a dynamic environment and contribute positively to a growing team by exemplifying our company values: (Multiculturalism & Pluralism, Integrity, Hospitality & Seva (Selfless Service), Excellence, and Entrepreneurialism ) . What Were Looking For in a Pastry Sous Chef: We are looking for someone who is excited by the challenge and opportunity of not just working with us on a new opening, but also building a positive culture with our team for the long run. Emotional Skillset: You embody the qualities that define great hospitality: Kindness, Optimism, Self-Awareness, Curiosity, Integrity, and Empathy . Experience: At least 3+ years of experience in pastry at a Senior CDP position or equivalent Values Alignment: You share our family values of Multiculturalism & Pluralism, Integrity, Hospitality & Seva (Selfless Service), Excellence, and Entrepreneurialism. Ambition: A drive to build a career, learn from our senior team, and make a tangible impact on a growing business. Culinary Curiosity : A genuine curiosity and of flavours from South Asia, the Far East, the Middle East, and East Africa. Key Responsibilities Lead the day-to-day pastry operation, ensuring consistency, quality, and exceptional attention to detail across all service periods. Support the Executive Chef, taking responsibility for the pastry section and wider kitchen operations in their absence.

Support the opening and continued development of the kitchen, helping to establish strong systems, best practices, and a positive team culture.

Demonstrate care and respect for ingredients, driving a culture of quality, seasonality, and thoughtful use of produce.

Maintain and uphold the highest standards of food hygiene, cleanliness, and organisation in line with health & safety regulations and company procedures.

Manage ordering, stock control, and inventory within the pastry section, ensuring effective cost control and minimal waste.

Train, mentor, and supervise junior team members, fostering development, accountability, and strong technical execution.

Oversee the preparation, baking, and finishing of desserts, breads, and pastry components, ensuring all recipes, standards, and presentation guidelines are consistently met.

What We Offer in Return: Career Progression: Opportunities for growth as our company expands, with direct mentorship from senior management and directors on leadership, business and hospitality skills. Unique Training: Go beyond the kitchen with opportunity to train and work with our farm partners, specialist producers and to learn and teach our approach to maternal cuisine, cooking without borders and restorative hospitality. Competitive Package and Team Benefits: Delicious and wholesome team meals, a 51% team discount at our restaurants upon passing probation, 28 days holiday, a company pension scheme and private health insurance plans for all team members. Everyone Is Welcome At Jikoni, one of our core values is Pluralism, the idea that celebrating both our similarities and differences make our community richer and stronger. We warmly encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences. If this role speaks to you but you dont meet every requirement, we would still love to hear from you. Please let us know if there are any reasonable adjustments or accommodations we can make during the hiring process.

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