Levy appoints chair to drive European expansion

Levy UK and Ireland has announced the appointment of Richard Thompson as chair in a newly created role aimed at supporting the company’s next phase of growth and expansion across Europe.

The business, which provides food and hospitality services at sports and entertainment venues and is part of Compass Group, said the appointment would strengthen its leadership structure and accelerate its long-term strategy.

Thompson is a prominent figure in the sports and entertainment industry, currently serving as chair of the England and Wales Cricket Board and of Surrey County Cricket Club. He is also global chair of M&C Saatchi Sports and Entertainment and chair of the M&C Saatchi UK Group.

He began his career after leaving school at 16, founding and selling two companies before moving into marketing and talent management. He has since launched three start-up businesses, all of which were acquired or listed.

Thompson said: “My primary focus will be finding ways to improve Levy’s reach and profile within the sporting and entertainment ecosystem to enable it to explore new opportunities, as well as expanding and reinforcing existing ones.

“Sport as a sector is growing rapidly, and a combination of broadening our service in a dynamic sector that’s growing so fast is exceptionally exciting. Delighting customers and providing life-long memories should be at the centre of everything we do.”

Jon Davies, chief executive of Levy UK and Ireland, added: “Getting Richard onboard isn’t just a natural progression; it’s a critical acceleration of our growth plan. His deep expertise in venue experiences and his proven track record in closing major deals in the broader entertainment world will be invaluable.”

Thompson previously worked with Levy as a client while chairing Oval Events, and said that experience would help him understand the company’s operations from a customer perspective.