Job Introduction
Logistics Manager – Kitchen & Food Operations
Aston Villa Football Club | Villa Park
Overview
At Aston Villa Football Club, matchdays are more than football – they are world-class hospitality occasions. Working in partnership with Levy, the UK’s leading sports and event hospitality specialist, we deliver exceptional food and beverage experiences to tens of thousands of supporters, players, partners, and guests at the iconic Villa Park.
From Premier League matchdays to European nights, conferences, and large-scale events, our kitchens are at the heart of everything we do. Behind every flawless service is a highly coordinated logistics operation – and that’s where this role is critical.
We are now looking for an experienced Logistics Manager (Kitchen & Food Focus) to lead and own all food, beverage, and kitchen logistics across Villa Park. This is a hands-on operational role, requiring proven experience managing kitchen logistics in high-volume, fast-paced environments.
Sustainability, efficiency, and excellence are central to how we operate. As a club and a partner, we are committed to doing the right thing for our people, our supporters, and the planet.
Role Purpose
Based at Villa Park, the Logistics Manager is responsible for ensuring the seamless flow of food, equipment, consumables, and kitchen resources to support all Aston Villa matchdays and events.
This role is pivotal to the success of culinary operations across multiple kitchens, kiosks, hospitality lounges, and premium areas. From supplier coordination and stock control to matchday delivery schedules and post-event reconciliation, you will create the operational backbone that allows chefs and service teams to perform at their best.
You will work closely with Head Chefs, Culinary Teams, Operations Managers, and Club Stakeholders, ensuring that every fixture and event is fully stocked, compliant, cost-controlled, and delivered to Premier League standards.
Key Responsibilities
Kitchen & Food Logistics (Core Focus)
Lead all food, beverage, and kitchen logistics across Villa Park.
Manage inbound deliveries of food, drink, and kitchen supplies, ensuring correct timing for matchdays and events.
Oversee storage, rotation, and distribution across multiple kitchens and service points.
Ensure stock availability aligns with menus, forecasts, and hospitality requirements.
Maintain strict food safety, allergen, and hygiene compliance at all times.
Event & Matchday Planning
Work closely with Levy and Aston Villa teams to plan logistics for Premier League fixtures, cup matches, European games, and non-matchday events.
Create detailed logistics plans covering delivery schedules, kitchen setups, and service readiness.
Anticipate peak volumes and adapt logistics plans for high-profile fixtures.
Inventory & Resource Management
Implement and manage robust stock control systems for food, beverage, and disposables.
Minimise waste, manage transfers between kitchens, and support sustainability targets.
Conduct regular stock counts and post-event reconciliations.
Supplier & Vendor Management
Manage relationships with food, beverage, and equipment suppliers.
Ensure quality, consistency, reliability, and value for money.
Resolve supply chain issues quickly to protect service delivery on matchdays.
Budget & Cost Control
Manage logistics budgets related to kitchen operations.
Monitor spend, identify efficiencies, and report on performance.
Support GP targets through effective logistics planning and waste reduction.
Transportation & Scheduling
Coordinate delivery routes, loading bays, and access times at Villa Park.
Ensure smooth flow of goods before, during, and after matchdays.
Balance operational efficiency with environmental considerations.
Risk, Compliance & Safety
Anticipate logistical risks during high-attendance fixtures.
Develop contingency plans for supplier delays or equipment failures.
Ensure all operations meet health & safety and food compliance standards.
Leadership & Team Management
Lead, develop, and motivate a logistics team with a strong kitchen focus.
Provide training and clear direction, particularly on matchdays.
Act as a calm, decisive leader during high-pressure events.
Continuous Improvement
Conduct post-match and post-event reviews.
Use data and feedback to improve kitchen logistics processes.
Drive innovation to enhance efficiency and sustainability at Villa Park.
Person Specification
Essential Experience & Skills
Significant experience in kitchen or food logistics within stadiums, arenas, large hospitality venues, or major events.
Proven background managing high-volume food operations on event or matchdays.
Strong understanding of food supply chains, stock control, and kitchen workflows.
Experience working alongside chefs and culinary teams in live environments.
Minimum 5 years’ experience in a logistics or operations management role.
Key Competencies
Excellent communication skills with chefs, operations teams, suppliers, and club stakeholders.
Strong problem-solving ability under pressure during live events.
Confident budget and cost management skills.
Comfortable using stock, logistics, and event management systems.
Highly organised with exceptional attention to detail.
Passion for delivering outstanding fan and guest experiences.
Personal Attributes
Flexible to work all Aston Villa matchdays, evenings, weekends, and key events.
Proactive, calm, and resilient in fast-paced environments.
A team leader who leads from the front.
Committed to sustainability, safety, and continuous improvement.
Proud to be part of Aston Villa Football Club and represent its standards and values.