Sous Chef in City of Westminster

Location: 30 Upper Grosvenor Street, Mayfair

About MA/NA

Opening in January 2026 on Upper Grosvenor Street, MA/NA is born from the Japanese philosophy that every ingredient carries an invisible power — a life‑force shaped by nature and the hands that honour it. ‘Mana’ is the spiritual energy that exists beneath the surface of all things. It is felt rather than seen — transforming emotion into experience, and a meal into memory. Guided by this belief, MA/NA offers a seamless blend of restaurant and bar — refined Japanese dishes alongside an exceptional cocktail, wine and sake list. Here, cocktails flow effortlessly into dinner, and dinner naturally returns to drinks. Every element — from design and service to sound and light — is intentional. Each detail celebrates the extraordinary within the simple.

The Role — Sous Chef

As Sous Chef at MA/NA, you will play a pivotal role in supporting the Executive Chef to deliver a kitchen experience defined by precision, respect, and creativity. You will help oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring every dish reflects harmony, balance, and craftsmanship. With a deep understanding of Japanese technique and seasonality, you will guide the team through service with calm focus and intention. Working closely with the Executive Chef and wider management team, you’ll nurture a culture of excellence and collaboration — one where each ingredient, preparation, and plate tells a story. This is a leadership role for a chef who thrives on detail and discipline, yet leads with empathy and curiosity — someone who understands that true artistry is found in balance.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Executive Chef in overseeing all aspects of kitchen operations and service
• Lead, motivate, and train the kitchen team to deliver consistent, exceptional quality
• Uphold and execute the culinary vision, ensuring precision, flavour, and presentation in every dish
• Collaborate with the Head Sommelier and Bar Manager to craft thoughtful food and beverage pairings
• Maintain high standards of mise en place, hygiene, and food safety at all times
• Assist with menu development, tastings, and seasonal changes
• Manage stock levels, ordering, and cost controls with accuracy and accountability
• Lead by example during service — calm, organised, and solutions‑focused
• Contribute ideas, creativity, and technical knowledge to continually evolve the MA/NA offering

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience as a Sous Chef or Senior Chef de Partie in a fine dining or high‑end kitchen
• Strong understanding of Japanese cuisine, ingredients, and techniques
• Meticulous attention to detail and commitment to consistency
• Calm, disciplined, and supportive leadership style
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Passion for seasonality, sustainability, and craftsmanship
• Organised and adaptable, with the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced environment
• A desire to help shape one of London’s most exciting new openings

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and service charge package
• Opportunity to help lead the kitchen of a flagship opening within the Thesleff Group
• Collaboration with world‑class chefs, sommeliers, and beverage professionals
• Continued culinary training, development, and career progression
• Staff meals, wellness initiatives, and a supportive, creative working environment

Join the MA/NA Opening Team

If you are guided by precision, curiosity, and respect for craft — and want to create food where emotion meets balance — we’d love to hear from you.