At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead growth and partnerships at iconic venues, driving strategy and performance.
- Company: Join Levy, part of Compass Group, delivering unforgettable experiences in hospitality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and a vibrant work culture.
- Other info: Opportunity to innovate and lead in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of two iconic venues and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in high-volume venues and strong commercial acumen required.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 £ per year.
Lead the next phase of growth across two of the UK's most iconic venues. At Levy, we don't just operate venues, we design and deliver bespoke guest experiences. We're looking for a Managing Director to lead our partnerships across The O2 and Excel London, two of the most dynamic, high‑profile venues in the UK. This is a senior role with full accountability for strategy, commercial performance and partnership across a multi‑million‑pound food and drink portfolio operating at pace, at scale, and with real impact.
About the Role
This role is accountable for setting and delivering the strategic direction for hospitality and retail across both venues driving commercial growth, strengthening partnerships, and elevating experience. You will operate as the senior leader for Levy across The O2 and Excel London, leading high‑performing teams and working closely with clients and stakeholders at the highest level. This is about creating clarity of direction, challenging the status quo, and ensuring consistent delivery against ambitious commercial and operational goals. Success in this role requires someone who can think strategically, act decisively, deliver at pace and drive commercial impact. Balancing long‑term growth with operational excellence in environments where expectations are high and the spotlight is always on.
Performance & Growth
- Driving commercial growth and long‑term value across both venues
- Identifying and unlocking new commercial opportunities across food, drink, retail and experience
- Using insight and data to continually challenge and optimise performance
Partnership
- Acting as the senior relationship lead for Levy with both venue partners
- Building trusted, forward‑looking relationships at board level
- Positioning Levy as a true strategic partner
People
- Leading and developing high‑performing leadership teams
- Creating a culture of accountability, pace and pride
- Coaching and challenging leaders to raise performance
Innovation & Delivery
- Championing innovation across food, service and guest experience
- Driving continuous improvement in operational delivery
- Ensuring both venues remain at the forefront of Levy innovation
What We’re Looking For
- Experience within large‑scale, high‑volume venues or destination businesses
- A strong track record of driving growth and performance in complex, partnership‑led environments
- Deep commercial and financial acumen with full ownership of financial outcomes
- The presence and credibility to influence at board and senior stakeholder level
- Experience leading across multiple flagship operations or major client partnerships
Why This Role
This is a rare opportunity to lead across two of the UK's most iconic venues, within a business full of ambition and momentum, shaping strategy, driving performance and influencing partnerships.
Who are Levy?
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. Across the UK and Ireland, we partner with iconic venues including The O2, Excel London, Wimbledon, Twickenham, Aviva Stadium, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Aston Villa and the Scottish Event Campus. We're growing fast across Europe too, with venues including Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam and Uber Arena in Berlin and we're just getting started. At the heart of Levy is a belief that great food, great service, and the right partnerships create unforgettable experiences. Beyond the plate, we act as strategic partners to our clients bringing insight, innovation, and commercial thinking to every space we operate. Through our wider ecosystem including KERB, Peppermint and Levy’s premium and experiential brands Lyvera, we unlock even more value for our venues and partners. We're also committed to doing the right thing for our people and the planet from sustainability and wellbeing to inclusion and paying the Real Living Wage.
Managing Director | London employer: Compass Group PLC
Compass Group PLC is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Leeds where you can lead a passionate team and make a real impact on customer experiences. With a strong focus on employee development, competitive benefits including a pension scheme, and a culture that values high service standards, this role provides a unique opportunity to grow your career in the food service industry while driving profitability and creating memorable moments for guests.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Director | 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 Compass Group PLC. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Compass Group PLC
Don't be shy about reaching out to Compass Group PLC 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 Managing Director | 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 Compass Group PLC 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 Compass Group PLC
✨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!
