At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead your section in a Michelin-star kitchen, showcasing your culinary skills and creativity.
- Company: Join the Woodhead Restaurant Group, known for its supportive and inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, excellent training, and a positive work environment with great perks.
- Other info: Opportunities for growth and development in a dynamic culinary team.
- Why this job: Make your mark in a vibrant kitchen while working with seasonal British produce.
- Qualifications: Strong experience as a Chef de Partie with a passion for high-quality cooking.
The predicted salary is between 24750 - 30250 £ per year.
Portland is a vibrant, one Michelin star restaurant serving high quality, ingredient led food in Fitzrovia. We take a modern approach to hospitality, working with amazing seasonal produce and nurturing an incredibly talented team. We are proud of our reputation as a great employer and want to work with our team members to build fulfilling and rewarding hospitality careers.
The Role
As a Senior Chef de Partie, you'll be one of the strongest section chefs in the kitchen and set the example for how a section should be run. You'll take full ownership of your section - from preparation and organisation through to execution and close-down - demonstrating the standards, consistency and attention to detail we expect from the wider kitchen team. You'll be someone junior chefs can look to as an example of excellent organisation, technique and professionalism.
Working closely with the Head Chef and Sous Chefs, your responsibilities will include:
- Running your section confidently and independently, maintaining control and high standards throughout preparation and service
- Setting the benchmark for section organisation, preparation, cleanliness and execution
- Preparing and presenting dishes consistently to Michelin-level standards
- Anticipating what your section needs and staying ahead rather than reacting during service
- Working with outstanding seasonal British produce and developing strong product knowledge
- Supporting and guiding junior chefs, providing feedback and helping them develop good habits
- Communicating clearly with senior chefs and the wider kitchen team
- Taking responsibility when something isn't right and helping find solutions
- Contributing to a positive, professional and ambitious kitchen culture
With regularly changing menus, every season brings new ingredients, techniques and opportunities to continue developing your craft.
About You
We're looking for someone who is already a very strong section chef and takes genuine pride in how their section operates. You'll ideally have:
- Previous experience as a Senior Chef de Partie or strong Chef de Partie in a quality restaurant or fine-dining kitchen
- The ability to run a busy section independently, calmly and consistently
- Excellent organisation and mise en place — your section should be an example for others
- Strong technical ability and attention to detail
- The ability to maintain standards and urgency even under pressure
- A natural willingness to support, guide and set an example for less experienced chefs
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- A passion for seasonal, ingredient-led cooking
- Curiosity and a genuine desire to continue learning and improving
Strong Chef de Parties who are ready to take the next step are also encouraged to apply. Above all, we're looking for someone who leads through their own standards. You don't need to be a manager, but you should be someone others naturally look to for an example of how to prepare, organise and run a section properly. Above all else we prize a positive attitude, eagerness to learn and people who enjoy and take pride in their work.
Why Woodhead?
At Woodhead Restaurant Group we are proud of our reputation as a leading hospitality employer. In 2025 we were voted one of Code Hospitality's happiest places to work. We treat our employees as individuals, and encourage them to take ownership of our independent sites. With a culture based on honesty, respect and development, we are determined to reward our team for the hard work they put into making our restaurants so brilliant and set our people up for long and successful careers with us.
Our internal training is some of the best around and we'll always work with you towards development and progression. We have a considered and impactful perks package and are dedicated to creating an environment that gets the best out of our people. Our daily briefings are some of the best around (as is our staff food).
About us
Woodhead Restaurant Group comprises 5 restaurants, all located in London. We started with one restaurant (Portland in 2015) and added a few more into the fold over the last few years, driven by the talent of our teams rather than any grand expansion strategy. The Woodhead Restaurant Group is an equal opportunities employer. Our aim is to welcome everyone and create inclusive teams. We celebrate difference and encourage everyone to join us, and to be themselves at work. If you would like to read our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy, please ask and we will be happy to share it with you.
Senior Chef de Partie 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 Senior Chef de Partie 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 Senior Chef de Partie 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!
