At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a buzzing restaurant, manage operations, and create an unforgettable guest experience.
- Company: Wildwood, a vibrant restaurant group with exciting growth plans.
- Benefits: Earn up to £48,000, full site ownership, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and be part of our exciting expansion journey.
- Why this job: Shape a beloved venue in a prime West End location and make it your own.
- Qualifications: Proven restaurant operator with strong leadership and financial management skills.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 48000 £ per year.
Flagship Restaurant Opportunity right in the heart of Covent Garden, opposite the Royal Opera House, Wildwood is a buzzing two-floor, 120-cover restaurant with an open kitchen, a lively atmosphere, and a loyal local following. Already trading strongly, the restaurant is set for a fresh new refurbishment at the start of the year, giving the next operator an even stronger platform to build from. With its unbeatable West End location, established customer base, and plenty of scope to grow the business further, Wildwood Covent Garden is an exciting opportunity for someone looking to take on a well-loved venue and make it their own. It would particularly suit an operator who knows the West End and understands the energy and opportunities that come with theatre trade.
Here’s why you’ll love working with us:
- Earn up to £48,000 per year – this is including service charge
- Full site ownership with the chance to build on what is already a fantastic restaurant
- The opportunity to shape the team, culture, and guest experience
- Work alongside a supportive, experienced management team and Area Manager who will help you grow
- Be part of a site we are actively investing in
The vibe: This isn’t a “clipboard in the corner” kind of job. You’ll be on the floor, leading from the front, setting the energy and making sure the guest experience is exactly where it should be. At the same time, you’ll be the person running the business behind the scenes managing labour, owning the P&L, driving sales, and making smart decisions that keep the site performing. We’re looking for someone who loves the buzz of hospitality but also understands what it takes to run a successful restaurant.
Who we are: Wildwood (part of the Bow Street Group) has been serving Italian-inspired food, great cocktails and characterful venues since 2006. Every site has its own look and feel but one thing stays the same: casual excellence. Full table service delivered with flair, confidence and personality. No scripts. No robotic service. Just great hospitality. With 30 restaurants and big expansion plans for 2026, there’s serious room to grow with us.
What you’ll be owning:
- Full P&L responsibility for the restaurant
- Labour control and budgeting, ensuring the business performs week in, week out
- Leading, developing and inspiring a strong management and floor team
- Delivering consistently high guest experience and service standards
- Training and developing people, helping the next generation of leaders grow
- Driving sales, performance and local engagement
- Managing stock, costs, rotas and operational standards
- Working closely with the Area Manager to build and grow the business
You’ll smash this if you are:
- A proven restaurant operator who knows how to run a busy site – ideally a west-end location
- Comfortable owning the numbers - P&L, labour and costs
- A natural leader who builds strong teams and develops people
- From a branded hospitality background (ideal but not essential)
- The kind of person who loves improving, evolving and building something special
If you love the buzz of a busy floor, thrive on responsibility, and want to lead a restaurant with huge potential, this could be the role for you.
General Manager in London employer: Wildwood
At Wildwood, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer by offering a supportive and dynamic work environment where every chef can thrive. With guaranteed hours, flexible scheduling, and clear progression paths, we ensure that our team members feel valued and empowered to grow in their careers. Our hands-on leadership and commitment to diversity create a welcoming atmosphere, making Wildwood the perfect place for those seeking a rewarding career in hospitality.
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 Wildwood. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Wildwood
Don't be shy about reaching out to Wildwood 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 Wildwood 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 Wildwood
✨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!
