At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead culinary excellence and innovate menus for major events at iconic venues.
- Company: Join Levy, a visionary partner in hospitality and event experiences.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, health perks, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to making a positive impact.
- Why this job: Shape unforgettable guest experiences while promoting sustainability and culinary innovation.
- Qualifications: Senior-level experience as an Executive Chef in high-volume environments.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Weare Levy
We are a visionary venue partner. We design and deliver bespoke guestexperiencesthatprioritizepeople and the planet.
Trusted by some of the world's most iconic stadiums, entertainment venues, and major events -including Wimbledon, Twickenham, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Edgbaston, the SECand Excel London - we bring experiences to life with passion and precision.
Our mission is tosucceedthe right way.
From pioneering tech and seamless operations to show-stopping menus and exceptional service, we use insight and innovation to understand guests, improve the customer journey, reduce environmental impact, and support local communities.
We are a passionate, diverse team of venue specialists dedicated to making the planet better for future generations.
Role Overview
The Executive Chef is responsible for leading culinary excellence in one of our Levy-operated NEC Group venues.
This senior leadership role will shape food strategy, drive innovation, support major event delivery, and develop high-performing culinary teams.
The role spans large-scale exhibitions, arena catering, corporate hospitality, conference & banqueting, and premium guest experiences, ensuring Levy continues to deliver outstanding food quality and memorable guest experiences in the allocated NEC site.
Key Responsibilities Culinary Leadership & Strategy
- Deliver the culinary vision in your allocated NEC Group venue in alignment with Levy UK strategy and guidance from the Culinary Director UK.
- Develop innovative, seasonal, and commercially effective menus for exhibitions, conferences, arena events, and VIP hospitality.
- Lead sustainability-focused culinary initiatives including plant-forward menus, responsible sourcing, and waste reduction.
- Operational Excellence
- Oversee culinary operations across the allocated NEC venue.
- Support high-volume event delivery, daily multi-outlet operations, and premium hospitality services.
- Ensure consistency in quality, flavour, presentation, and recipe adherence across the venue.
- Lead culinary delivery for major live events, conferences, exhibitions, and VIP lounges.
- Financial & Commercial Performance
- Partner with venue leadership teams to achieve strong financial results.
- Manage menu engineering, food costing, supplier relationships, and purchasing alignment.
- Maintain operational efficiency while protecting Levy's high culinary standards.
- Team Development & Leadership
- Coach, support, and develop Sous Chefs and culinary team.
- Build a strong talent pipeline for high-volume events, hospitality, and conference operations.
- Lead training programmes and skills development workshops.
- Client & Stakeholder Engagement
- Maintain strong relationships with NEC Group stakeholders and partner organisations.
- Deliver tastings, culinary showcases, and menu presentations for clients, VIPs, and senior leadership.
- Collaborate across hospitality, commercial, marketing, and operations teams to enhance the guest experience.
- Quality, Safety & Sustainability
- Ensure full compliance with UK food safety legislation, HACCP, allergen management, and Compass audit standards.
- Drive sustainability initiatives in line with Levy UK environmental commitments and NEC Group priorities.
Qualifications & Experience
- Senior-level experience as an Executive Chef within UK hospitality, arenas, exhibitions, conferences, or large-scale events.
- Proven success managing high-volume culinary operations and premium hospitality environments.
- Strong commercial acumen in food costing, menu engineering, and financial planning.
- Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and organisational skills.
- Culinary qualification or equivalent extensive experience preferred.
- Whatyou'llget inreturn
- Competitive salarywith bonusand full company benefits
- 23 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, your birthday off, and a holiday purchase scheme
- Healthcare & wellbeing: Aviva Digicare, Medicash (dental, optical, therapy treatments)
- Mental health support: 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
- Family benefits: Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave. 2 days' additional leave after returning from maternity leave, day off for your baby's first birthday, enhanced family leave
- Perks & discounts: Shopping, entertainment, and travel discounts, 20% off Nuffield Health and 10% off Pure Gym memberships
- Financial wellbeing: Pension scheme, Life Assurance, preferred rates on salary finance products
- Development opportunities: Professional subscriptions, ongoing training and structured career pathways
- Meals on duty included
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. Our diverse team fuels creativity, innovation, and excellence.
We are proud to be an equalopportunitiesemployer and welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join us in creating a supportive, empowering workplace where everyone can thrive.
Together, we create unforgettable experiences - and shape the future of hospitality.
Executive Head Chef NEW Levy Posted today Competitive Birmingham, Chefs employer: Chartwells Independent
Join Constellation at Molineux Stadium, where we pride ourselves on creating a vibrant and supportive work environment for our Kitchen Porters. With flexible matchday roles, you'll have the chance to be part of thrilling events while enjoying opportunities for personal growth and development within the Levy UK family. Our commitment to high standards and teamwork ensures that every employee feels valued and integral to our success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Head Chef NEW Levy Posted today Competitive Birmingham, Chefs
✨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 Chartwells Independent. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Chartwells Independent
Don't be shy about reaching out to Chartwells Independent 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 Executive Head Chef NEW Levy Posted today Competitive Birmingham, Chefs
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 Chartwells Independent 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 Chartwells Independent
✨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!
