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Head Chef
Manchester United
Manchester United is one of the most popular and successful sports teams in the world, playing one of the most popular spectator sports on Earth.
Job Posted- 21 Sep 2025
Status- Full Time
Location- England
Closing date- 3 Oct 2025
The Purpose:
Reporting to the Executive Head Chef, the Head Chef will play a pivotal role in driving culinary operations within the stadium of Old Trafford, overseeing food production across 29 kitchens within the stadium. This key leadership position is responsible for upholding and enhancing standards of food quality, safety, and innovation across a diverse catering portfolio —including premium matchday and events hospitality and bespoke fine dining experiences.
The Role:
Key Responsibilities:
- Serve as the driving force behind culinary operations at Old Trafford, overseeing food production across 29 kitchens within the stadium
- Set and maintain exceptional standards of food quality, safety, and innovation across a wide range of catering services, staff meals, matchday hospitality, Famous Red Cafe and bespoke fine dining
- Manage and coordinate all food production processes to ensure consistent, high-quality output across all kitchens and events
- Lead by example in upholding and advancing culinary standards, incorporating innovative food production and service techniques to enhance the guest experience
- Oversee the delivery of services ranging from casual staff dining to high-end corporate and VIP hospitality
- Lead, inspire, and manage a large brigade of up to 155 chefs, 10 Goods Received and 80 back-of-house staff during matchdays and major events
- Delegate responsibilities clearly and ensure smooth operations with safe systems of work across all culinary areas
- Foster a team culture built on collaboration, accountability, and continuous development
- Maintain high visibility during events, engaging with guests, gathering real-time feedback, and responding promptly to service demands
- Use guest insights to improve menu offerings, presentation standards, and overall culinary experience
- Oversee the repair, maintenance, and timely replacement of kitchen equipment, ensuring cost-efficiency and minimal disruption to service
- Work closely with facilities and procurement teams to ensure kitchens are fully operational and adequately resourced
- Ensure the Club consistently upholds outstanding food safety and hygiene standards
- Collaborate with the Back of House Manager and Regulatory Services Team to keep all risk assessments up to date and ensure staff are trained in food safety responsibilities
- Build and maintain strong professional relationships with local health authorities and regulatory bodies
The Person:
Skills & Experiences:
Essential:
- Minimum of 3 years' experience in a senior chef position overseeing multiple kitchens with a diverse catering portfolio, including fine dining, banqueting, and large-scale food production
- Deep understanding of food production workflows and demonstrated ability to lead culinary teams in high-pressure, fast-paced environments
- Comprehensive knowledge of food safety legislation and hygiene standards; holds a minimum of Level 3 Food Hygiene certification
- Strong financial acumen with a proven track record of managing and delivering on food and labour budgets
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel for managing recipes, costings, stock control, and food performance data
- Outstanding leadership and communication skills, with experience managing large, multi-disciplinary culinary teams
Desirable:
- Experience working within stadiums, large event venues, or professional sports club catering operations
- Advanced understanding of global food trends and menu development
- Additional formal culinary training and relevant health and safety certifications beyond the minimum requirements
What We Offer:
At Manchester United, we recognise that our people are at the heart of our success. That’s why we offer a range of rewards designed to support your professional and personal well-being:
- Annual incentive scheme
- Wellness Support with access to mental health resources, digital health checks, and & nutritionists through Aviva Digicare+ Workplace
- Exclusive Discounts through our United Rewards platform, giving you access to exclusive deals from the club and partners
- Gym Facilities in our onsite locations and opportunities for regular social events and team-building activities
- Enhanced family Leave Benefits and an opportunity to purchase additional holiday days
- Enhanced Career Development with access to professional learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, and internal training programs
- A Supportive Work Environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion, and individual growth
Our Commitment to You:
At Manchester United, we believe that a diverse and inclusive environment makes us stronger. We are committed to building a team where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Diversity, equity and inclusion are at the core of our recruitment strategy, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
How to Apply
Please click “Apply Now” to begin your application.