Daniel Clark named managing director of Aramark’s sports and entertainment division

Daniel Clark has been appointed managing director of Aramark UK’s newly-established sports and entertainment division.

It comes after Helen Milligan-Smith, chief executive of Aramark UK and global offshore, told The Caterer last year of her plans for the business to become “the leading sports and entertainment provider”.

Clark was the former global account director for Aramark’s Merlin Entertainments business, which meant he was responsible for foodservice operations at attractions such as Legoland, Chessington World of Adventures, Alton Towers and Thorpe Park.

Prior to that, he was responsible for overseeing revenue growth at major venues such as the London Stadium, Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium, Wembley Stadium and the O2 Arena.

In his new role, Clark will boost Aramark’s sports and entertainment offering, which now includes Merlin Entertainments, Everton Stadium and Sussex County Cricket Club.

Aramark secured its F&B contract with Merlin Entertainments in 2022, while its culinary partnership with Everton came in 2024.

Milligan-Smith said: “We’ve made significant strides within the sports and entertainment sector over the last two years, contributing to our rapid growth journey. We have ambitious plans to revolutionise the sports and entertainment foodservice experience, and I am thrilled to have Daniel lead this. His expertise, combined with our innovative approach, will be pivotal in achieving our goals.”

Clark added: “I am honoured to step into the role of managing director for our new division, which is already achieving outstanding success. My passion lies in delivering exceptional, memorable moments in extraordinary spaces, and I am thrilled to bring our vision to life within this dynamic sector. We are dedicated to driving positive disruption in sports and entertainment foodservice and hospitality, and I look forward to leading the team.”