Job Introduction
Sous Chef RDS - Dublin - Up to €50000
For nearly 200 years, the Royal Dublin Society (RDS) has stood as a cornerstone of Irish cultural, agricultural, and social life. Founded in 1731 to promote agriculture, arts, industry, and science, the RDS has grown from a learned society into one of Ireland’s most iconic live-events destinations — hosting everything from major exhibitions and concerts to sporting moments and international conventions.
As the hospitality partner at this storied venue, Levy brings world-class food, service, and event experiences to every occasion. Working with us at the RDS means being part of a passionate, dynamic team that thrives in a live environment and helps shape unforgettable moments for tens of thousands of visitors each year.
The Role
As Sous Chef at the RDS, you will play a pivotal role in delivering outstanding culinary experiences across one of Ireland’s busiest and most prestigious event venues. Supporting the Head Chef, you’ll help lead day-to-day kitchen operations, drive quality and consistency, and motivate teams to deliver at scale across conferences, exhibitions, banquets and premium hospitality.
This is a hands-on leadership role, ideal for a strong Sous Chef who thrives in fast-paced, event-led environments and enjoys developing people while maintaining exceptional standards.
Key Responsibilities
Culinary & Operational Leadership
- Support the Head Chef in overseeing all kitchen operations across events, banqueting, exhibitions and hospitality.
- Lead service delivery during high-volume events, ensuring quality, consistency and pace.
- Take responsibility for specific areas or events, ensuring smooth planning and execution.
Team Leadership & Development
- Supervise, motivate and develop Chef de Parties, Demi Chefs, Commis Chefs and kitchen support teams.
- Lead by example on the pass and on the floor, promoting a positive and professional kitchen culture.
- Support training, inductions and performance development across the team.
Food Quality & Standards
- Ensure food is prepared and presented to Levy and RDS standards at all times.
- Support menu development, tastings and bespoke event menus.
- Drive consistency across all sections and services.
Food Safety, Compliance & Hygiene
- Maintain full compliance with food safety, hygiene, health & safety and HACCP procedures.
- Ensure kitchens are audit-ready and operate to the highest cleanliness and safety standards.
- Address any operational or equipment issues swiftly and effectively.
Stock, Cost & Resource Control
- Support food cost control, stock management and ordering in line with budgets.
- Minimise waste while maintaining quality and portion control.
- Assist with rota planning and labour deployment during peak event periods.
Stakeholder Collaboration
- Work closely with the Head Chef, Operations and Events teams to deliver seamless guest experiences.
- Support client tastings, walk-throughs and live event delivery.
About You
Essential
- Proven experience as a Sous Chef in a high-volume or event-led kitchen.
- Strong background in banqueting, conferences or large-scale hospitality.
- Confident leader with excellent communication and organisational skills.
- Solid understanding of food safety, HACCP and compliance.
Desirable
- Experience within a premium venue or contract catering environment.
- Strong mentoring and people-development skills.
- Passion for food innovation and continuous improvement.
What We’re Looking For
- A hands-on, visible leader who leads from the front.
- Calm, adaptable and organised under pressure.
- A strong team player with ambition to progress.
- Flexible to meet the demands of an event-driven operation, including evenings and weekends.
Why Join Levy at RDS?
- Work at one of Ireland’s leading conference and events venue.
- Be part of Levy, a global and award-winning hospitality brand.
- Exposure to a diverse and high-profile events calendar.
- Clear opportunities for development and progression within Compass Group.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
Here's an idea of what your shift patterns will be: 5 out of 7 days
As part of Compass you'll help to feed people, fuel progress and forge connections in around 6,000 venues. Join us to grow your career with the industry leader, and get competitive pay, great perks and unrivalled opportunities for learning and development, at one of the UK's biggest businesses.
Job Reference: com/1302/41901001/52790586/SU #Levy UK
Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!