Executive Chef- Aston Villa Football Club in Birmingham

Levy is the vibrant and exciting sector of Compass Group, the world’s largest catering company. We work at some of the greatest venues in the world, delivering legendary experiences in food, drink, and hospitality. In the UK, we are proud to have a wealth of long-standing partnerships with venues across sport, entertainment, and events.

We are culinary champions – it’s what we do and it’s what we are passionate about. At the core of our work is the belief that sustainably sourced great food and drink, coupled with exceptional service is key to creating legendary experiences. Focused on ‘doing the right thing’ for our people and the planet, sustainability, wellbeing, diversity, and inclusion are at the heart of what we do.

ROLE PURPOSE:

The role of an Executive Chef is multifaceted and pivotal in ensuring the success of live events, match day hospitality, retail, conferences, and exhibitions. Operating at the intersection of culinary artistry and event management, the Executive Chef is tasked with orchestrating a seamless culinary experience that enhances the overall ambiance and satisfaction of event attendees. Beyond mere meal preparation, the Executive Chef is responsible for conceptualizing and executing diverse and innovative menus tailored to the specific needs and preferences of each event.

Key Responsibilities:

• Menu Development and Execution: Conceptualise, design, and execute diverse and creative menus tailored to the unique themes and requirements of each event hosted at Aston Villa FC.
• Kitchen Operations Management: Oversee day-to-day kitchen operations, ensuring a seamless workflow, and maintaining the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and presentation.
• Team Leadership and Development: Lead, inspire, and mentor a skilled culinary team, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Collaboration with Stakeholders: Collaborate closely with event planners, organisers, and other stakeholders to align culinary offerings with the overall theme, ambiance, and logistical requirements of each event.
• Supplier Management: Source and manage relationships with suppliers to ensure the availability of high-quality and cost-effective ingredients.
• Financial Management: Implement and maintain effective cost control measures to achieve financial targets while maintaining exceptional food quality.
• Innovation and Trends Monitoring: Stay abreast of industry trends, culinary innovations, and emerging technologies to continually enhance the dining experience offered at Aston Villa Football Club.
• Quality Assurance: Conduct regular quality assessments of culinary offerings, ensuring consistency, and taking corrective actions as needed.
• Event Coordination: Work closely with event planners and organisers to plan and execute culinary aspects of events, including staffing levels, menu adjustments, and last-minute changes.
• Continuous Improvement: Proactively identify opportunities for process improvement, cost savings, and operational efficiency within the culinary department.

Person Specification:

Skills and Competencies:

• Extensive and proven experience in culinary arts, with a focus on large-scale event catering.
• Exceptional culinary skills with a demonstrated ability to create diverse and innovative menus.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse culinary team.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively liaise with cross-functional teams, suppliers, and stakeholders.
• Solid financial management skills, including budgeting, cost control, and profitability analysis.
• Strategic thinking and adaptability to meet the dynamic demands of event schedules.

Experience: Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in culinary roles, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership position.

Personal Attributes: Passion for culinary excellence and a commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences. Creativity and innovation in menu development and presentation.

Additional Requirements: Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, in alignment with event schedules.

What you’ll get in return: Competitive salary with bonus and full company benefits, 23 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, healthcare & wellbeing, mental health support, family benefits, perks & discounts, financial wellbeing, and development opportunities.

Why Join Us? Levy UK & Ireland is part of Compass Group, the world’s largest catering company, and a vibrant leader in hospitality. We believe in celebrating individuality and building inclusive teams where everyone feels they belong.