Dicks has returned to the UK from Ireland, where he was managing director of Sodexo Ireland, to take up the post. It was created after the contractor’s sports and leisure (S&L) business was brought into one division following a strategic review.
He now has responsibility for S&L contracts in England and Wales overseeing more than 80 senior client relationships and delivering full catering, hospitality and management services at a number of high-profile events, sports stadia and public leisure venues.
Dicks will manage a team of 1,800 at Sodexo Prestige, which is renowned for providing excellent food and service, at world class events such as the RHS Chelsea Flower Show through to sporting venues such as Newcastle United Football Club and historic houses like Ickworth House in Suffolk.
He has 18 years’ experience within the commercial and contract service industry and, since joining Sodexo in 1998, he has held a number senior management positions.
Chris John, managing director, Sodexo Prestige and Corporate Services, UK and Ireland, said: “I am pleased to welcome Jeremy back to the UK to take on our sports and leisure business and look forward to working with him on exciting growth opportunities ahead.”
Dicks himself added: “This is a highly exciting opportunity to build on our success by capitalising on our team’s wealth of experience and expertise in managing the full spectrum of sports and leisure business from large, complex events to sports stadia and prestigious venues across the country.”