Head Chef

Head Chef

Full-Time 40000 - 50000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead two dynamic kitchens, creating innovative menus and ensuring top-notch guest experiences.
  • Company: Join Legends Global, a leader in sport and entertainment with a commitment to excellence.
  • Benefits: Enjoy discounted event tickets, 25 days annual leave, and comprehensive health support.
  • Other info: Be part of an inclusive team dedicated to innovation and sustainability.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a vibrant environment while showcasing your culinary creativity.
  • Qualifications: Proven leadership in high-volume kitchens and strong operational skills required.

The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.

About Legends Global is redefining excellence in sport, entertainment and live events. With unrivaled 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 Modern, dynamic and built for memorable experiences, Connexin Live is Hull’s premier destination for live entertainment. Since 2018, more than 400,000 visitors have enjoyed standout performances across music, comedy and live events. With premium hospitality spaces, bars and lounges—including the Connexin Lounge—the venue offers first‑class experiences for fans and artists alike. Working in partnership with Beverley Racecourse—one of Yorkshire’s most picturesque racecourses with a rich heritage of racing and events—you’ll also be part of delivering exceptional race day and non‑racing hospitality experiences.

About the Role As Head Chef across Connexin Live and Beverley Racecourse, you’ll lead two dynamic kitchens, driving innovation, consistency and excellence at scale. From high‑energy live events to atmospheric race days and premium hospitality, you will shape menus, elevate food quality and oversee seamless kitchen operations across diverse service styles. With a focus on creativity, efficiency and exceptional standards, you’ll deliver outstanding guest experiences that reflect our commitment to Legends Global excellence at both iconic venues.

What we can offer Hosting events is what we do best, and we want our People to experience that too—enjoy access to discounted tickets to unleash your superfan for all your favourites. You will work hard at Legends Global, but you will be rewarded with lots of time to relax and rest with 25 days annual leave. We understand that you have a life outside of work and want to ensure that your loved ones will always be taken care of whilst you’re contributing to our success with our Life Assurance policy. A healthy contribution of 5% Pension so that your golden years are spent ticking off the items on your bucket list. Got a dental bill? Need to book a counselling session? Or even help with physio costs? With the support of Healthshield, Legends Global will support with these unexpected costs for you and any children. We understand that from time to time you might need a bit of support to get you back to feeling your best, so we have teamed up with AXA Health to provide our people with an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support mental health in the workplace. We are visionaries: both physically and metaphorically! When you join Legends Global you will be entitled to eye care vouchers and a contribution towards any glasses you require. Pedal your way to a greener, healthier commute—join our Cycle to Work scheme and turn every ride into a win for you and the planet. Great people know great people! Refer a friend through our Employee Referral Scheme and get rewarded for helping us build an amazing team.

Key Responsibilities

  • Leading culinary strategy across both sites, developing and delivering innovative, seasonal menus for arena events, race days, retail kiosks, VIP hospitality and corporate functions, while continuously enhancing food quality, presentation and overall guest experience.
  • Driving operational excellence, overseeing daily kitchen operations across two locations, embedding consistent systems, SOPs and standards, and effectively managing service pressures and staffing challenges.
  • Owning financial performance, with full P&L accountability, controlling food and labour costs through smart menu engineering, supplier management and productivity planning, while monitoring GP and identifying efficiencies.
  • Building and uniting high‑performing teams, fostering a strong, accountable culture with clear communication and alignment of standards, expectations and behaviours across both kitchens.
  • Ensuring compliance and best practice, maintaining rigorous food safety, hygiene and HACCP standards, accurate due diligence records, effective stock and waste management, and full allergen compliance in line with Natasha’s Law.

We are looking for someone with:

  • Proven leadership in high‑volume environments, with experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef across multi‑outlet or event‑driven operations, and the ability to maintain exceptional standards under pressure.
  • Strong commercial and operational acumen, including P&L, GP and budget management, alongside expertise in menu development, food strategy, stock control and supplier relationships.
  • Multi‑site and systems expertise, with a deep understanding of delivering consistency across locations, implementing kitchen systems and managing competing priorities with strong organisation and planning.
  • A people‑first leadership style, with excellent communication, delegation and team management skills, capable of motivating multiple teams and resolving challenges effectively.
  • Technical excellence and compliance knowledge, including food safety, HACCP and allergen control (Natasha’s Law), supported by relevant qualifications, a keen eye for detail, and a proactive, solutions‑focused approach aligned with current food trends and seasonality.

Recruitment Process Outlined

  • 1st Stage – Intro Call with Talent Team & Regional Executive Chef - North East Region
  • 2nd Stage – Interview and Cook‑Off on site with Hiring Team

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.

Head Chef employer: Utilita Arena

Legends Global is an exceptional employer that champions a vibrant and inclusive work culture, offering the Head Chef the opportunity to lead culinary innovation across two iconic venues in Hull. With a commitment to employee well-being, you will enjoy generous benefits such as 25 days of annual leave, health support, and a strong pension contribution, all while being part of a dynamic team that values creativity and collaboration. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a fast-paced environment where your ideas can flourish and your career can thrive.

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Contact Details:

Utilita Arena Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head Chef

Tip Number 1

Get to know the company! Research Legends Global and their venues, Connexin Live and Beverley Racecourse. Understanding their values and what they stand for will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested.

Tip Number 2

Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info about the company culture and might even lead to a referral. Plus, it shows you're proactive!

Tip Number 3

Prepare for the cook-off! Since there's a practical element in the recruitment process, practice your signature dishes and be ready to showcase your culinary skills. Think about how you can innovate and elevate the menu at both venues.

Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Legends Global team. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!

We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef

Culinary Strategy Development
Menu Development
Operational Excellence
P&L Management
Food Safety Compliance
HACCP Knowledge
Team Leadership

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion for Food:When writing your application, let your love for food and cooking shine through! Share your culinary journey, favourite dishes, and what inspires you in the kitchen. We want to see your personality and creativity!

Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef. Focus on your achievements in high-volume environments and how you've driven innovation and excellence in previous roles. We’re looking for someone who can bring that magic to our kitchens!

Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate a well-structured application that showcases your skills without unnecessary fluff!

Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!

How to prepare for a job interview at Utilita Arena

Know Your Menus Inside Out

As a Head Chef, you'll be expected to lead culinary strategy and develop innovative menus. Make sure you research current food trends and seasonal ingredients. Prepare to discuss your ideas for menu development and how you can elevate the guest experience at both Connexin Live and Beverley Racecourse.

Showcase Your Leadership Skills

This role requires strong people management abilities. Be ready to share examples of how you've built high-performing teams in high-pressure environments. Discuss your leadership style and how you foster a culture of accountability and communication within your kitchens.

Understand Financial Performance

With full P&L accountability, it's crucial to demonstrate your commercial acumen. Brush up on your knowledge of food and labour costs, menu engineering, and supplier management. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully managed budgets and identified efficiencies in previous roles.

Prepare for the Cook-Off

The second stage involves a cook-off, so practice your cooking skills! Think about how you can showcase your technical excellence and creativity under pressure. Plan a dish that reflects your culinary style and aligns with the standards expected at Legends Global.