Career Advancement Joshua Moore has been promoted to Director of Food & Beverage at the Oklahoma City Convention Center, effective immediately. The role oversees all food and beverage operations across conventions, conferences, banquets, trade shows, and other events at the 500,000-square-foot downtown venue.
Background and Experience Moore joined Legends Global—the venue operator and management company—in September 2017 at Chesapeake Energy Arena (now Paycom Center), home of the Oklahoma City Thunder. He was part of the opening team when the Oklahoma City Convention Center launched in 2021 and helped establish the venue's culinary identity from its first event. An early career highlight was helping create the first Made in Oklahoma Coalition House restaurant at the Budweiser Brew House, where he championed locally sourced products and built partnerships with Oklahoma producers. Under his leadership, the convention center's dining program has evolved beyond traditional banquet fare to feature elevated comfort foods with modern culinary influences.
Leadership Vision As Director, Moore plans to continue elevating the culinary program, strengthen relationships with local and regional producers, and expand mentorship opportunities for culinary students. "I'm honored to step into this role at a venue I've called home since its opening," Moore said. "The Oklahoma City Convention Center is an important gathering place for the community, and I look forward to building on an already strong foundation by delivering consistent quality, innovative cuisine and meaningful partnerships that benefit our guests, our local businesses and everyone who visits the venue." Barbara Beaton, General Manager of the Oklahoma City Convention Center for Legends Global, noted that "Josh has been part of OKCCC's story since the very beginning, and has exceptional knowledge of our venue, our community and our customers. His promotion reflects the depth of talent we have on our team and the standard of excellence our guests and partners have come to expect."
Workforce Development Moore has established partnerships with culinary schools and public education programs across Oklahoma. Through his work with Oklahoma ProStart, he guided a student team to the national level of competition. Kaarthik Iyer, Regional Director of Food & Beverage for Legends Global, said: "During his time as Executive Chef, Josh has demonstrated exceptional culinary leadership, creativity, and a commitment to delivering an outstanding guest experience. We are confident he will bring that same passion, dedication, and excellence to his new role."
Why It Matters
The promotion reflects the competitive landscape for experienced culinary leadership at major hospitality venues. Moore's focus on local sourcing and workforce development aligns with broader industry trends toward regional supplier partnerships and culinary education pipelines.
For more insights and trends in the food and beverage sector, check out more articles in The Food & Beverage Magazine family of publications.
Written by FBM Publications Editors
