At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Front of House team and ensure exceptional dining experiences.
- Company: Join Portland, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Fitzrovia.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, health insurance, staff discounts, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Supportive environment focused on personal growth and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team and make a real impact in hospitality.
- Qualifications: Experience in hospitality with strong leadership and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Join the Front of House Team at Portland, our Michelin-starred restaurant in the heart of Fitzrovia. We believe exceptional service comes from people who genuinely care about their guests, their colleagues and their own development. Every member of our team plays an important role in creating memorable dining experiences built on warmth, professionalism and attention to detail.
The Role
As the leader of the Front of House team, you are responsible for the management of your staff, the smooth running of lunch and dinner services and the day-to-day operations of the restaurant. You are expected to establish a healthy and happy working environment that balances professionalism with employee welfare and job satisfaction. As General Manager, you must lead by example and carry out your duties to the highest possible standard. These responsibilities are inclusive of, though not limited to:
- Building and training a strong, supportive, and friendly team
- Planning and conducting instructive and inspirational daily briefings
- Producing a fair and efficient staff rota
- Ensuring the restaurant is kept clean, set-up prior to each service, and closed down following the end of evening service
- Devising and implementing the steps of service that will guide our guest experience
- Communicating clearly between the kitchen and front of house team
- Acting as a reference point for guests, helpful and full of knowledge
- Answering the restaurant telephone when required, taking reservations and answering guest queries
- Completing all health and safety, food hygiene and training materials provided to you and ensuring your colleagues have done likewise
- Exemplifying the culture, attitude and behaviour as outlined in the Employee Handbook
- The maintenance and upkeep of the building, including fire safety
- Financial reporting, invoices, and admin
- Staff development, including probations, appraisals and disciplinaries
About You
We're looking for people who love hospitality and enjoy making others feel welcome. The ideal candidate will:
- Have experiences as GM or AGM wanting to take the next step (experience in fine dining is an advantage but not essential)
- Be friendly enthusiastic with a can-do attitude
- Be a compassionate and inspirational leader
- Work well under pressure and as part of a team
- Be excited to take ownership of the role and really make it their own
- Really care about providing a fantastic experience for guests
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong attention to detail
- The ability to remain calm and organised during busy services
- Be passionate about food with a basic understanding of wine and beverages
- A willingness to learn and develop your skills
Above all else we prize a positive attitude, eagerness to learn and people who enjoy and take pride in their work.
Benefits & Career Development
Alongside a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package including:
- Bupa private health insurance
- 50% staff discount across all Woodhead Restaurant Group restaurants for up to six guests
- Welcome lunch
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
- Access to confidential mental health support
- Paid company sick leave
- Paid community volunteering days
- £1,000 employee referral bonus
- Additional annual leave with long service (up to three extra days)
We're passionate about developing our people. Many of our managers and chefs began their careers with us in junior positions, and we actively support internal progression through ongoing training, mentoring and development opportunities.
Why Woodhead Restaurant Group?
Woodhead Restaurant Group is home to five independent London restaurants: Portland, Clipstone, 64 Goodge Street, Quality Wines, Quality Chop House. Since opening Portland in 2015, we've grown thoughtfully by investing in talented people rather than pursuing rapid expansion. Our culture is built around four core values: Respect, Honesty, Generosity, Continuous improvement. In 2026, we were proud to be recognised as one of Code Hospitality's Happiest Places to Work, reflecting our commitment to creating rewarding, sustainable careers in hospitality.
Why Join Portland?
Portland is a vibrant Michelin-starred restaurant built around seasonal, ingredient-led cooking and genuine hospitality. You'll work alongside talented chefs and front of house professionals who are passionate about their craft and committed to helping each other improve every day. Whether you're already experienced or looking to build a long-term career in hospitality, you'll receive the support, training and opportunities to continue developing.
Diversity & Inclusion
Woodhead Restaurant Group is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating inclusive workplaces where everyone feels welcomed, respected and able to thrive. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, we're happy to support you.
Apply Today
If you're looking for a Front of House role where you'll work alongside talented people, learn every day and help deliver exceptional Michelin-starred hospitality, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and take the next step in your hospitality career with Portland.
General Manager in London employer: Portland
At Woodhead Restaurant Group, we pride ourselves on being a leading employer in the hospitality industry, offering a vibrant work culture that values honesty, respect, and personal development. Our commitment to nurturing talent is reflected in our exceptional training programmes and supportive environment, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to thrive and build a rewarding career. Located in the heart of Fitzrovia, our Michelin-starred restaurant, Portland, provides a unique chance to work with outstanding seasonal produce while being part of a passionate and ambitious kitchen team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager in London
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Portland. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Portland
Don't be shy about reaching out to Portland directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace General Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Portland and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Portland
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
