Director of Strategy - Excel London

Director of Strategy

Salary up to £95,000 per annum

Role Purpose;

The Director of Strategy will be responsible for leading and taking direction from the Director of Catering and Client on the strategic vision and execution for ExceL London’s thriving Conference & Events (C&E) portfolio and its dynamic Retail operations. This role is pivotal in shaping long-term growth, enhancing customer experience, and ensuring commercial success across both verticals.

You will ensure that change is not only delivered successfully, but also embedded in a sustainable manner, which is fit-for-purpose in achieving our strategic aims. The Director of Strategy will be high profile and will work collaboratively with the Director of Catering; Levy UK & I team and venue stakeholders to deliver the objectives of the Venue alongside the wider business.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for C&E and retail operations, aligned with Excels broader business objectives.
• Identify and evaluate new revenue streams, partnerships, and innovation opportunities across events and retail.
• Collaborate with commercial, operations, and marketing teams to optimise venue utilisation, delegate experience, and retail performance and experience.
• Lead strategic planning for across the venues Conference & Events and Retail with key stakeholders
• Analyse market trends, customer insights, and competitor activity to inform strategic decisions.
• Present strategic recommendations to the executive team and board, supported by data-driven insights.
• Build and lead a high-performing strategy team, fostering a culture of innovation and accountability.

About you:

• Significant senior-level experience (8+years) in strategic leadership roles within events, hospitality, retail, or venue operations.
• Proven track record of developing and executing successful commercial and operational strategies.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and managing complex stakeholder environments.
• Demonstrated success in driving innovation, transformation, and revenue growth.
• Strong strategic thinking and analytical skills, with the ability to translate insight into action.
• Commercial acumen with experience in business case development, financial modelling, and performance tracking.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence at board level.
• Skilled in stakeholder engagement, negotiation, and partnership development.

We ensure that you're rewarded for all your hard work, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes but is not limited to:

• Private Healthcare
• Discretionary annual bonus scheme
• 27 days annual leave plus BH’s and an additional day off for your birthday!
• Free meals on duty
• Pension scheme and Life Assurance
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Competitive and supportive family benefits
• Exclusive Benefits and Wellbeing site (Perks at Work)
• Holiday purchase scheme
• On-going training, development and career pathways
• Professional subscriptions paid
• Financial wellbeing programme and preferred rates on salary finance products

Who we are:

Levy UK + Ireland is the vibrant and exciting sector of Compass Group, the world’s largest catering company. We work at some of the greatest venues in the world, delivering legendary experiences in food, drink, and hospitality.

In the UK, we are proud to have a wealth of long-standing partnerships with venues across sports, entertainment, and events. Our partnerships include venues such as Wimbledon, Twickenham, Edgbaston, Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, Principality Stadium and many more.