Chef de Partie - National Theatre - Full Time

Chef de Partie- National Theatre London

£32,000 per annum plus benefits

NT Food & Drink is a unique and dynamic partnership driven by Levy and KERB, embedded within the National Theatre on the South Bank. Our ambition to create a world-class hospitality destination at the heart of the world's most iconic theatre is powered by our progressive people-first approach, centred on environmental and social sustainability. We celebrate inclusivity with purpose, putting the development and progression of our future leader’s centre stage. Our shared goal is to ensure all food and drink spaces support the NT's overall values, vision, and culture.

Purpose

Reporting to the Head Chef, you'll oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring top-quality dishes and smooth service. Responsibilities include managing inventory, maintaining food safety standards, assisting with events, and training both kitchen and FOH staff. If you're passionate about excellence and teamwork, we’d love to hear from you!

Specific Responsibilities:

• Food Preparation & Cooking: Plan, prepare, and cook menu items to a high standard, following guidance from the Sous/Head Chef. Ensure consistency, quality, and efficiency in food production.
• Menu Development: Assist in designing and refining menus, staying ahead of food trends, and contributing innovative service concepts to enhance the dining experience.
• Section Management: Oversee the smooth and efficient running of your kitchen section, including mise en place preparation, stock-taking, and placing orders as required.
• Leadership & Supervision: Support the kitchen team by providing guidance and leadership, stepping in to oversee operations in the absence of the Sous/Head Chef.
• Customer Service: Maintain a customer-focused approach, ensuring prompt, friendly, and efficient service while consistently exceeding expectations.
• Team Collaboration & Training: Work closely with colleagues, assisting team members when needed, and mentoring junior chefs by demonstrating and instructing food preparation and cooking techniques.
• Personal & Professional Development: Take responsibility for your own growth by attending training sessions, actively developing skills, and seeking guidance from senior chefs.
• Company Representation & Compliance: Uphold company values, act as a positive ambassador, respond to reasonable client requests, and adhere to all health, safety, and hygiene regulations.

Who you are:

• Proven experience as a Chef de Partie or equivalent role with a strong culinary background.
• Demonstrated skill in preparing a diverse range of high-quality dishes.
• Previous experience in catering for staff restaurants, live events, conferences, or exhibitions, showcasing adaptability to the unique demands of such settings.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively within a team, fostering a positive and collaborative kitchen environment.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills, capable of handling multiple tasks efficiently, particularly during peak event periods.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, demonstrating flexibility and composure in handling unexpected challenges and last-minute adjustments.
• A creative approach to menu planning and presentation, showcasing innovation and the ability to elevate culinary experiences.

Benefits

• Healthcare & Wellbeing – Medicash health benefits (including dental, mental health & optical for you and up to 4 children), free annual health check with Aviva Digicare, discounts at Nuffield Health & Pure Gym, and access to our Employee Assistance Programme.
• Exclusive Perks & Discounts – Save on entertainment (up to 55% off cinema tickets), shopping (up to 15% off), Vodafone plans, and travel with top providers such as TUI & Expedia.
• Workplace Benefits – Meals on duty, pension scheme, life assurance, and professional subscriptions paid.
• Leave & Family Support – 23 days + bank holidays, your birthday off, extra leave after maternity return, a day off for your baby’s 1st birthday, and a holiday purchase scheme.
• Career & Financial Support – Ongoing training & development, career pathways, financial wellbeing programme, and preferred rates on salary finance products.
• Exclusive National Theatre discounts (15% off outlets, 25% off Bookshop, complimentary show tickets)
• Food & drink discounts (Kerb Card: 50% off drinks, 20% off food at Seven Dials Market)
• VIP last-minute O2 show tickets (subject to availability)
• Discounted onsite parking (£4/day)

Who are Levy?

Levy, part of Compass Group, known for delivering exceptional food, drink, and hospitality experiences at world-renowned venues such as Wimbledon, Twickenham, and Tottenham Hotspur. Focused on sustainability, diversity, and inclusion, Levy prides itself on using sustainably sourced ingredients and providing outstanding service. The company is committed to achieving Net Zero by 2027, partnering with the British Paralympic Association, and ensuring all team members earn at least the Real Living Wage or London Living Wage.

Why Join Us?

At Levy UK & Ireland, we celebrate diversity and foster inclusion, valuing every individual’s unique strengths. Our diverse team fuels creativity, innovation, and success. We promote fairness, ensure all voices are heard, and provide equal opportunities for all.

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join us in creating a supportive, equitable workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute. Together, we achieve greatness.