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Retail Head Chef - NEC Birmingham | Full-Time / Permanent£35,000 + excellent benefits including healthcare, wellbeing support, 23 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, life assurance, meals on duty, and more.We're looking for a passionate Head Chef to join the innovative team at NEC Birmingham - the UK’s largest event space! As Head Chef you will lead retail culinary operations; ensuring kitchens runs safely and efficiently, leading a passionate kitchen team, and enabling us to exceed guest expectations for world-class events, conferences, and exhibitions.If you have the culinary and leadership skills to manage a high-volume kitchen in a dynamic retail environment, we want to hear from you!We are Levy Levy is about elevating experiences. We are a leading global hospitality partner, designing and delivering unforgettable guest moments that prioritise people 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 SEC and ExCeL London – we bring experiences to life with passion and precision.Our mission is to succeed the 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.Retail Head Chef – The roleLeading on building efficient and commercially viable labour plans and food and beverage orders for large-scale events using key sales insightsManaging budgets, labour, and stock control to ensure high-quality and cost-effective menu solutionsSupporting with continued business improvements and profitabilityMaintaining SOP standards in the operational areaLeading on delivering all health & safety and food safety standardsChampioning the Levy brand standards and delivering an outstanding guest experienceMonitoring guest feedback and implementing improvements to enhance overall service levelActing as a role model for the team, supporting training and development.Acting as duty manager, allocating kitchen duties and responsibilities to all culinary team members and providing on shift support to colleagues.Supporting with relevant event and kitchen roles in the business / venues including Support Chef, FPA or Kitchen Assistant.What We’re Looking ForExperience managing a high-volume kitchen in a retail environmentPrevious experience adhering to safety policies and proceduresAbility to think on your feet and adapt to whatever challenges arise.Has an awareness of commercial driversA keen eye for detail and consistent desire to uphold high standards.Strong communication and teamwork skillsPassion for guest experience and service excellenceAbility to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environmentWhat You’ll Get In ReturnCompetitive salary and full company benefits23 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 ProgrammeFamily benefits: 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 includedWhy 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 equal opportunities employer 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.