Oak View Group (OVG) is the world’s leading development, management, and hospitality company founded in 2015 to positively disrupt business as usual.

As the largest developer of sports and entertainment facilities in the world, OVG prioritises the way we do business focusing on making long-term investments in our people and our planet.

With an expanding footprint in the United Kingdom, OVG is redefining how fans experience live events through innovative hospitality.

OVG's first UK project, Co-op Live in Manchester, revolutionised fan experiences through innovative hospitality. We are ready to build on this as we gear up to manage further venues across the UK.

We're fanatical about transforming food and beverage services across sports and entertainment venues by prioritising culinary innovation, local concepts, and seamless technological integration.

An incredible opportunity has arisen for a Head Chef to take the reins at the brand-new Level 1 Restaurant at St Mary’s Stadium – the home of Southampton FC. This is your chance to lead from the front and put your stamp on an exciting new dining destination.

The Role

As Head Chef, you’ll have full responsibility for the kitchen operation – from shaping and delivering menus to leading and inspiring your brigade. You’ll ensure the smooth day-to-day running of a 7-day operation (5 on, 2 off), balancing creativity with operational excellence to deliver a dining experience that exceeds expectations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Full ownership of all kitchen operations, including planning, service, and staff management.
• Leading the kitchen team with clear direction, motivation, and a focus on excellence.
• Designing and developing menus that are innovative, seasonal, and customer-focused.
• Managing purchasing, ordering, and stock control to deliver consistency and cost efficiency.
• Maintaining the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and H&S compliance.
• Driving customer satisfaction through quality, creativity, and consistent delivery.
• Working closely with senior management to ensure the Level 1 Restaurant meets its culinary and commercial goals.

About You

• A proven track record as a Head Chef.
• Strong leadership and communication skills – able to inspire, mentor, and get the best out of your team.
• Highly organised with the ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• A passion for great food, seasonal produce, and delivering outstanding dining experiences.
• Commercially aware with experience managing budgets, GP, and cost control.

Why Join Us?

This isn’t just another kitchen job – it’s the chance to take ownership of a high-profile new restaurant at Southampton FC. You’ll have the freedom to be creative, the platform to lead, and the opportunity to make a lasting mark on a flagship venue.

OVG is for everyone. Diversity drives innovation, strengthens our people, improves our service, and raises our excellence. Wherever you come from, wherever you are going, we’d love to hear from you.

As part of the recruitment process, you will need to prove your right to work in the UK. Basic DBS will be required.