Deputy General Manager Venues - F&B · Chelsea FC

Deputy General Manager Venues - F&B · Chelsea FC

Full-Time 31000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead F&B operations at Chelsea FC, ensuring exceptional guest experiences and driving revenue growth.
  • Company: Join Legends Global, a leader in sports and entertainment, at the iconic Stamford Bridge.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, health support, pension contributions, and eye care vouchers.
  • Other info: Flexible working arrangements and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
  • Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping unforgettable experiences in a world-class venue.
  • Qualifications: Significant experience in hospitality management and a passion for delivering excellence.

The predicted salary is between 31000 - 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

Home to one of the world’s most iconic football clubs, Stamford Bridge is a global stage for elite sport and unforgettable fan experiences. Founded in 1905, Chelsea FC competes at the highest level of domestic and European football, supported by world‑class hospitality and non‑matchday events. At the heart of West London sporting life, Legends Global works in partnership with Chelsea FC as their official F&B provider to deliver excellence on and off the pitch.

About the Role

Legends Global are seeking an exceptional Deputy General Manager to support the leadership and operational excellence of its F&B operations. Working closely with the General Manager, the Deputy General Manager will lead day‑to‑day operations, drive commercial performance, develop high‑performing teams, and ensure the highest standards of service, quality, and compliance are consistently achieved. The postholder also inputs into venue budgeting and business development plans, and acts as a secondary liaison with key stakeholders. The successful candidate will be an inspirational leader with extensive experience in premium hospitality, luxury venues, stadium operations, hotels, or high‑volume food and beverage environments.

What we can offer

  • 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

Key Responsibilities:

  • Support the General Manager in leading operations, driving revenue growth, cost control, and business performance.
  • Provide leadership across all hospitality and event operations, ensuring exceptional guest experiences and service standards.
  • Act as senior operational lead when required, deputising for the General Manager and representing the business with key stakeholders.
  • Lead, develop, and inspire managers and teams through effective recruitment, coaching, performance management, and succession planning.
  • Champion a high‑performance culture focused on hospitality excellence, employee engagement, and continuous improvement.
  • Ensure compliance, operational efficiency, and the highest standards of safety, presentation, cleanliness, and service delivery.

We are looking for someone with:

  • Significant senior management experience within food and beverage, hospitality, leisure, hotels, stadiums, arenas, conference and events, or premium guest experience environments.
  • Demonstrable experience delivering exceptional guest experiences while managing high‑volume operations.
  • Experience leading operational delivery across complex events and customer‑facing environments.
  • Experience working collaboratively across multiple departments and stakeholder groups.
  • A strong decision maker, with a solid understanding of sports, entertainment, stadium, or venue‑based environment.
  • Able to work to strict deadlines with the ability to prioritise a range of tasks.
  • Strong coaching and mentoring capabilities, with a commitment to developing talent.
  • Experience leading change, transformation, or continuous improvement programmes.

Recruitment Process Outlined:

  • 1st Stage - Intro with Talent Team
  • 2nd Stage - Interview with Venue Leadership Team

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. 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.

Deputy General Manager Venues - F&B · Chelsea FC employer: Utilita Arena

Legends Global is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the iconic Stamford Bridge, home to Chelsea FC. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, including generous annual leave, comprehensive health support, and a focus on professional development, we foster a culture of inclusivity and high performance. Join us to be part of a team that values innovation and collaboration, ensuring every member has the opportunity to thrive in the exciting world of sports and hospitality.

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Contact Details:

Utilita Arena Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Deputy General Manager Venues - F&B · Chelsea FC

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 Utilita Arena. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to Utilita Arena

Don't be shy about reaching out to Utilita Arena 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 Deputy General Manager Venues - F&B · Chelsea FC

Leadership
Operational Excellence
Commercial Performance
Team Development
Service Quality Standards
Budgeting
Business Development

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 Utilita Arena 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 Utilita Arena

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!