Head Chef - Retail
The Venue
Olympia Events manages the iconic event venues at Olympia, a cultural and architectural landmark that has hosted extraordinary events since 1886. From internationally renowned consumer exhibitions and trade shows to sporting events, concerts and conferences, Olympia continues to bring world-class experiences to London. Its distinctive architecture and nearly 140-year heritage make it one of the UK's most recognisable and sought-after event destinations.
Today, Olympia is entering an exciting new chapter. At the heart of a £1.3 billion transformation, the estate has been reimagined as London's newest fully integrated entertainment, culture and business destination. Designed by Heatherwick Studio and SPARCC for Yoo Capital and Deutsche Finance International, the redevelopment combines Olympia's historic event spaces with an exceptional new destination for visitors, businesses and event organisers.
The Role
The Head Chef is responsible for leading all culinary operations within the Heritage Halls, delivering world-class food experiences across conferences, exhibitions, banquets, VIP events, and live cooking stations. The role ensures exceptional quality, innovation, food safety compliance, cost control, and seamless coordination with event and operations teams
The Responsibilities
Lead all kitchen operations across exhibitions, banquets, VIP functions and special events, ensuring exceptional standards and flawless delivery.
Create innovative menus featuring seasonal, international and bespoke dishes that embrace culinary trends, sustainability and local sourcing.
Deliver outstanding event catering, managing high-volume, multi-outlet food production, service excellence and premium presentation standards.
Inspire and develop your team, leading, training and scheduling kitchen colleagues while fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
Drive operational excellence, managing budgets, stock, wastage, compliance, reporting, client tastings and stakeholder relationships while representing the ICC brand.
What we're looking for
Proven experience managing hospitality, events and function catering within a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
Strong leadership skills, with a track record of motivating, developing and managing successful teams.
Excellent knowledge of food hygiene, health & safety and statutory requirements, supported by a food hygiene qualification as a minimum.
Commercially minded, with experience managing budgets, controlling costs and delivering operational efficiencies.
A confident communicator, providing exceptional customer service, building relationships across all levels and using IT systems effectively.
What can we offer?
🏖️ 25 Days Annual Leave – Work hard, rest well.
👪 Life Assurance – Peace of mind knowing your loved ones are protected.
🏦 5% Pension Contribution – Helping you prepare for a bright future.
🏥 Healthshield Cover – Support with dental, physio, counselling and more for you and your children.
🧠 Employee Assistance Programme – AXA Health support whenever you need it.
👓 Eye Care Support – Vouchers and contributions towards glasses.
🚴 Cycle to Work Scheme – A greener, healthier commute.
💸 Employee Referral Scheme – Recommend great people and get rewarded.
Recruitment Process Outlined
1st Stage - Online Interview
2nd Stage - Face to Face Interview with the Venue Culinary 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.
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.