<b>Online marketing, SEO</b> Southend-on-Sea

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 skills
Strong organisational and problem-solving abilities
Experience managing rotas, staffing, and supplier relationships
A flexible and hands-on approach to work

What's on Offer?

£42,000 pro rata,
Part-time, 6-9 month contract, 3 days per week
Opportunity to lead operations within a busy and professional events venue
Varied and rewarding role with significant responsibility
Central SE1 location
Immediate start availableIf you're an experienced venue or events operations professional looking for a rewarding part-time contract role, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today for immediate consideration.

Please note that no terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate on the grounds of a person's gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation. Every candidate will be assessed only in accordance with their merits, qualifications and ability to perform the duties of the job