Jimmy Garcia Catering appoints Alana Buckley as new Managing Director
· Former KERB MD brings strategic growth and partnership expertise
· Richard Groves steps into Chairman role to focus on business development
· Leadership team strengthened ahead of next growth phase and B Corp ambitions
Leading events and venue caterer Jimmy Garcia Catering is thrilled to announce the appointment of Alana Buckley as the company’s new Managing Director from 6th October 2025. It marks an exciting new chapter as the business continues to grow its reputation as one of London’s most creative and well-respected catering brands.
Alana brings a wealth of experience, having held senior roles across some of the capital’s well-renowned event and venue organisations. Her impressive career includes rising through the ranks at KERB, where she played a pivotal role in the company’s growth, moving from Head of Events to Commercial Director, and eventually Managing Director. During her time at KERB, Alana was instrumental in securing and developing key partnerships.
After returning from maternity leave, Alana took on the role of Business Development Director, reaffirming her passion for strategic growth and partnership building. Her move to Jimmy Garcia Catering as Managing Director signals her strong desire to bring that experience and energy to a fast-growing, innovative events and venue caterer.
Prior to her time at KERB, Alana was Head of Events at Moving Venue, and has also held key roles at prestigious institutions including St. Paul’s Cathedral giving her a well-rounded understanding of both catering operations and venue partnerships. She also sat on the board for Unique Venues of London (UVL).
In parallel with Alana’s appointment, current Managing Director Richard Groves will move into the role of Chairman, where he will focus on business development and strategic partnerships. Richard has worked in the industry for over 30 years and played a key role in bringing Alana into the business so that he can concentrate fully on driving growth and long-term strategy.
Together, Alana and Richard will lead the team at Jimmy Garcia Catering, alongside Founder Jimmy Garcia, and Bertie Woodhead, Managing Director of the commercial arm of the business, Jimmy’s Pop Up. This experienced and ambitious team is the driving force behind the company as it enters its next phase of growth, with goals including B Corp certification and a continued commitment to creativity, sustainability, and operational excellence in the events, venue catering and hospitality industry.
Jimmy Garcia, Founder, commented:
“We chose Alana because of her exceptional experience and strong industry connections. Richard and I have brought her into the business at an exciting and pivotal time for the company, and we’re confident that her leadership will help us continue to grow and innovate across new venues and client experiences. Her experience will be invaluable for both Jimmy Garcia Catering and Jimmy’s Pop Up.”
Alana joins Jimmy Garcia Catering at a time of continued momentum, with several partnerships and activations set to be announced later this year. Jimmy Garcia Catering continues its success, adding the V&A South Kensington, The Science Museum, and Two Temple Place to their accredited list of venues already this year.
