General Manager- Live Events Venue

About the role

Convene Hospitality Group is set to launch a state-of-the-art live events venue, Convene Rathbone, in the heart of London's West End in Spring 2027. This pivotal role will guide the venue through its initial setup and ensure its ongoing success. The General Manager will be tasked with laying down operational frameworks, assembling a top-tier team, and cultivating a unique culture and exceptional client experience.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Lead and inspire a diverse range of teams, including those in Hospitality Operations, Culinary Services, Event Planning, Sales, AV Production, Workplace Experience, and Reception.
• Recruit, mentor, and nurture high-performing teams while ensuring compliance with HR policies and ongoing training initiatives.
• Supervise payroll functions to guarantee accuracy and adherence to workforce planning requirements.
• Create a collaborative and accountable team atmosphere, prioritizing employee development and well-being.
• Develop and implement the venue's strategic operational plan in collaboration with regional leadership, focusing on financial success and client satisfaction.
• Advocate for a service philosophy that guarantees world-class experiences for various event types.
• Manage event execution across all operational sectors, ensuring the venue consistently meets client expectations and is event-ready.
• Cultivate strong relationships with clients and partners to provide exceptional event experiences.
• Uphold stringent operational standards through effective policies, safety measures, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Oversee building operations, maintenance, and resource allocation to ensure safety, efficiency, and alignment with brand values.
• Collaborate with the centralized commercial team to formulate and implement strategies aimed at revenue growth and market positioning.
• Foster a high-performance commercial culture that emphasizes business development and client relationship management.
• Create and execute the annual business plan while managing income and expenditure targets effectively.
• Enhance revenue and profitability through strategic pricing, occupancy management, and P&L oversight.
• Ensure accurate financial reporting and operational assessments, implementing efficient purchasing practices.
• Work alongside leadership to devise and implement long-term growth strategies.
• Introduce industry-leading best practices to maintain the venue's status as a benchmark for innovation and service excellence.
• Stay informed about market trends and industry changes, adapting the venue's offerings to maintain competitiveness.
• Continuously refine the operational framework to boost efficiency and effectiveness across all departments.

Requirements

• A minimum of 7 years in senior leadership roles within event venue management, client/membership services, hospitality, or a related sector.
• Demonstrated success in achieving financial objectives and driving revenue growth.
• Strong operational knowledge in event logistics, food and beverage management, and technical production.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and team-building capabilities.
• Ability to juggle multiple priorities in a dynamic, membership-focused, and event-driven environment.
• Proficient in budgeting, financial reporting, and KPI analysis.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as necessary to support event operations.

Nice to have

• Experience in high-profile event management or large-scale venue operations.
• Familiarity with innovative event technologies and trends.
• Previous experience in a fast-paced, high-volume hospitality environment.
• A strong network within the event planning and hospitality industry.
• Knowledge of sustainable practices in event management.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in project management software and event management platforms.
• Strong analytical skills for financial reporting and operational assessments.
• Excellent interpersonal skills for client and team interactions.
• Familiarity with safety regulations and compliance standards in venue management.
• Ability to utilize data analytics to inform decision-making and strategy development.

Practical notes

Convene provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes private medical insurance, subsidized eye care, and fitness memberships, along with an Employee Assistance Program. Employees enjoy 25 days of annual leave in addition to bank holidays, company sick pay, and a bonus scheme. Additional perks include interest-free loans for rail season tickets, support for further education, and a subsidized bicycle purchase program. The organization is committed to continuous professional development and recognizes employee contributions through various recognition programs. Opportunities for volunteering and engaging in community initiatives are also available. Convene is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.