At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create innovative menus for exciting events.
- Company: Join Legends Global, a leader in sport and entertainment experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, health support, and discounted event tickets.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for growth and flexible working arrangements.
- Why this job: Be part of a brand-new venue and make your culinary mark.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as a Head Chef with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
About Legends Global
Legends Global is redefining excellence in sport, entertainment and live events. With unrivalled expertise and international reach, we provide end-to-end solutions - from venue development and event programming to revenue strategy and hospitality. We take a 360-degree, data-driven approach across Partnerships, Hospitality, Merchandise and Attractions, working with leading clients to deliver outstanding experiences that resonate worldwide. Our organisation is committed to fostering an inclusive and forward-thinking environment where diversity drives innovation and collaboration. Guided by our values of Align, Scale, Connect, Team and Win we create a culture where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
The Venue
Valliant Live is a cutting-edge event complex with a capacity of up to 3,500 people. It is designed to host various events, including large corporate conferences, exhibitions, trade shows, major touring concerts, stand-up comedy, family performances, and sporting events. This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a brand-new venue from the ground up.
About the Role
We're looking for an experienced and commercially focused Head Chef to lead the culinary operation within our venue. Reporting to the Head of Food & Beverage, you will oversee all food production across conferences and events, gala dinners, premium hospitality (up to 180 covers) and high-volume retail catering. You'll lead the kitchen team, develop innovative menus, drive financial performance and ensure exceptional food quality at every event. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate leader who thrives in a fast-paced, event-led environment.
What we can offer
- Access to discounted tickets for events.
- 25 days annual leave.
- Life Assurance policy.
- 5% Pension contribution.
- Support with unexpected health costs through Healthshield.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for mental health support.
- Eye care vouchers and contribution towards glasses.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Employee Referral Scheme rewards.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead all kitchen operations, maintaining exceptional food quality, presentation and consistency.
- Deliver food across conferences, gala dinners, premium hospitality, corporate events and retail catering.
- Develop seasonal and event-specific menus that balance innovation with commercial performance.
- Plan production, staffing and kitchen operations to ensure seamless event delivery.
- Manage stock, ordering, food production and equipment to maximise efficiency and minimise waste.
- Work closely with Operations, Sales and Events teams to deliver outstanding guest experiences.
- Manage food costs, labour budgets and departmental expenditure.
- Deliver gross profit targets through effective purchasing, menu engineering and waste reduction.
- Ensure purchasing complies with approved supplier and procurement procedures.
- Recruit, develop and inspire a high-performing kitchen brigade.
- Ensure full compliance with Food Safety, HACCP, allergen legislation and Health & Safety standards.
- Always maintain kitchens to inspection ready standards.
- Oversee stock control, ordering, invoicing and payroll administration.
- Maintain accurate records, audits and compliance documentation.
- Support the Head of Food & Beverage in delivering the venue's food strategy and continuous improvement initiatives.
We are looking for someone with:
- Proven experience as a Head Chef, Executive Chef or Senior Executive Sous Chef within a high-volume hospitality operation.
- Experience delivering conferences, banqueting, premium hospitality and large-scale events.
- Strong commercial understanding of food cost, labour and budget management.
- Experience leading and developing large kitchen teams.
- Excellent menu development, production planning and organisational skills.
- Strong knowledge of HACCP, Food Safety, allergen management and Health & Safety legislation.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- IT literate with experience of stock control and ordering systems.
- Professional Cookery qualification (NVQ Level 3 or equivalent).
- Level 3 Food Safety qualification.
- IOSH Managing Safely.
- Experience in menu engineering and retail food development.
Recruitment Process Outlined:
- 1st Stage- Intro with Talent Team
- 2nd Stage- Interview with hiring manager
Any offer of employment will be subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks. These may include verification of identity, proof of address, right to work, employment history, qualifications, and-where relevant to the role-a basic or enhanced DBS check. All checks will be carried out in line with data protection law and we will only request information that is necessary for the role.
Inclusive Workplace
At Legends Global, we are committed to leading the entertainment industry towards a greener, faster, and more innovative digital future. There's never been a better time to join our team. We aim to be an inclusive organisation, trusted and admired by our colleagues, customers, and suppliers. Join us and make a significant impact from day one. We are committed to active inclusion, diversity, and equal opportunities. This commitment begins with our recruitment and selection process. We welcome discussions about flexible working arrangements. If you need reasonable adjustments at any stage of our recruitment process, please let us know in your application. We are dedicated to providing a fair and transparent assessment process and will do our utmost to accommodate your needs. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure it is considered. We will continue to review applications on a rolling basis and may close the advert before the closing date.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Derby
✨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 Legends Global. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Legends Global
Don't be shy about reaching out to Legends Global 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 Head Chef - Derby
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 Legends Global 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 Legends Global
✨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!
