General Manager- Live Events Venue

About the role

Convene Hospitality Group is opening a new 54,000-square-foot live events venue, Convene Rathbone, in London's West End in Spring 2027. This role involves leading the venue from its pre-opening phase through to its long-term success. You will be responsible for establishing operational foundations, building a high-performing team, and shaping the venue's culture and client experience.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Provide executive leadership to diverse teams including Hospitality Operations, Culinary, Event Planning, Sales, AV Production, Workplace Experience, and Reception.
• Recruit, mentor, and develop high-performing teams, ensuring ongoing training and adherence to HR policies.
• Oversee payroll processes, ensuring accuracy and compliance with workforce planning.
• Foster a collaborative, accountable, and hospitable team environment, investing in employee development and wellbeing.
• Establish and execute the venue's strategic operating plan in partnership with regional leadership, driving financial performance and client satisfaction.
• Champion a service philosophy that delivers world-class experiences for all event types.
• Oversee event delivery across all operational areas, ensuring the venue is consistently ready and meets client expectations.
• Build trusted relationships with clients and partners to deliver exceptional event experiences.
• Maintain rigorous operational standards through effective policies, safety protocols, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee building operations, maintenance, and resource allocation to ensure safety, efficiency, and brand alignment.
• Partner with the centralized commercial team to develop and execute strategies for revenue growth and market positioning.
• Drive a high-performance commercial culture focused on business development and client relationships.
• Develop and deliver the annual business plan, managing income and expenditure targets.
• Optimize revenue and profitability through strategic pricing, occupancy management, and P&L management.
• Ensure accurate financial reporting and operational reviews, implementing efficient purchasing practices.
• Partner with leadership to develop and execute long-term growth strategies.
• Implement industry-leading best practices to maintain the venue's benchmark status for innovation and service.
• Understand market trends and industry shifts, evolving the venue's offering to remain competitive.
• Continuously enhance the operational framework to improve efficiency and effectiveness across departments.

Requirements

• 7+ years of senior leadership experience in event venue management, client/membership experience, hospitality, or a related field.
• Proven track record of achieving financial targets and driving revenue growth.
• Strong operational expertise in event logistics, food & beverage programs, and technical production.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, membership and event-driven environment.
• Proficiency with budgeting, financial reporting, and KPI analysis.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays to support event operations.

Practical notes

Convene offers private medical insurance, subsidized eye care and fitness memberships, and an Employee Assistance Program. Benefits also include 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, company sick pay, a bonus scheme, interest-free loans for rail season tickets and further education, and a subsidized bicycle purchase scheme. The company supports continuous professional development and offers employee recognition programs. There are opportunities to volunteer and participate in community initiatives. Convene is an Equal Opportunity Employer.