Venue Operations Manager

Our client is seeking an experienced Venue Operations Manager to join their team on a part-time basis for a 6-9 month contract. This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on operational leader with experience in events, hospitality, conferencing, or venue management to oversee the smooth delivery of events and day-to-day venue operations.

The role offers core working hours of 9am to 5pm, with flexibility required for occasional early starts and late finishes to support the event schedule.

The Role

As Venue Operations Manager, you will be responsible for ensuring the seamless operation of a busy event venue, acting as the senior operational lead on-site and overseeing event delivery, facilities management, health and safety compliance, and team performance.

Leading a team that includes Supervisors, a Facilities Officer, a Venue Administrator, and a Sales Executive, you will play a key role in maintaining exceptional standards across all aspects of venue operations.

Key Responsibilities

Event Operations & Delivery

• Review and approve event function sheets, floor plans, catering requirements, and event specifications
• Act as the senior on-site contact and Duty Manager during live events
• Ensure all event requirements are delivered in line with client expectations and booking agreements
• Approve additional client charges where required and oversee event reporting and feedback
• Conduct venue inspections to ensure all front and back-of-house areas are maintained to a high standard
• Oversee the smooth operational delivery of multiple events and activities

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Act as the senior Fire Warden and responsible person on-site
• Ensure compliance with licensing regulations, health and safety legislation, and venue procedures
• Carry out regular venue walkthroughs to ensure fire exits and access routes remain clear and compliant
• Manage incident reporting, first-aid responses, and escalation procedures
• Coordinate facilities cover and building access arrangements when required

Finance & Administration

• Oversee catering orders, supplier purchasing, and stock control
• Monitor staffing levels, rota planning, and labour budgets
• Ensure agency, casual, and internal timesheets are processed accurately and submitted on time
• Oversee reception functions, visitor management, and delivery procedures

Team Leadership

• Provide leadership, coaching, and day-to-day support to the venue team
• Conduct regular one-to-one meetings and performance reviews
• Manage performance concerns professionally and effectively
• Support front-of-house and reception operations when required
• Promote a positive, collaborative, and customer-focused culture

About You

We're looking for a proactive and organised operations professional who can confidently manage a busy venue environment and lead teams effectively.

You will have:

• Previous experience in venue, events, hospitality, conferencing, or operations management
• Strong understanding of event logistics and operational planning
• Experience managing teams and coordinating multiple priorities
• Knowledge of health and safety, fire safety, and compliance requirements
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management

#J-18808-Ljbffr