Private Sous Chef

We are looking for a highly skilled and dedicated Sous Chef to support and complement the Head Chef at a prestigious private ultra‑luxury villa in Pedralbes, Barcelona. This is a hands‑on role requiring technical excellence, impeccable attention to detail, and the maturity to operate within a small, elite kitchen team serving a highly discerning private household. The right candidate is proactive, reliable, discreet, and committed to maintaining the highest culinary standards every single day.

This is a freelance / on‑call position, active during the principals' stays at the property. The frequency and duration of engagements may vary throughout the year. Candidates must be available to commit to confirmed dates and deliver the same level of excellence on every occasion, regardless of duration. There is potential for this role to evolve into a permanent position for the right candidate. Occasional travel may also be required as part of the engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Head Chef in the preparation and execution of daily meals, private dinners, and special events to the highest standard.
• Step up and lead the kitchen confidently and autonomously during the Head Chef's absence, maintaining full continuity of quality and service.
• Assist in menu development, ingredient sourcing, stock control, and supplier coordination, ensuring the kitchen operates efficiently at all times.
• Uphold the strictest food safety, allergen management, and kitchen hygiene protocols — non‑negotiable in a private household environment.
• Anticipate needs, propose improvements, and bring a proactive mindset to daily operations — contributing ideas before being asked.
• Adapt flexibly to the household's schedule, including events.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in a luxury hotel, fine‑dining restaurant, or private household kitchen, with demonstrated ability to work at a senior level.
• Fluency in both English and Spanish — essential for communication within the household team.
• Solid expertise across multiple cuisines, with strong knowledge of dietary requirements, allergens, and seasonal cooking.
• Ability to work seamlessly as part of a small, close‑knit team with a collaborative, ego‑free attitude.
• Absolute discretion and professionalism — the ability to operate within a confidential private household with maturity and integrity.
• A proactive, detail‑driven approach — someone who takes ownership, anticipates problems, and consistently raises the bar.

Benefits

• Exclusive environment: work within one of Barcelona's most prestigious private residences.
• Build and shape the kitchen culture and culinary identity from the ground up.
• High‑profile exposure: serve an elite private household within the international luxury circuit.
• Competitive package: remuneration aligned with the exceptional level of this role.

Due to the nature of this placement, the client's identity is kept strictly confidential. Full details will be shared with shortlisted candidates at the appropriate stage of the process.

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