Event Operations Manager - Iconic Historic Venue - (Fixed Term Contract until 31 March 2027)
Location: Liverpool City Centre
Salary: £33,120 pro rata (£26,496)
30 hours per week
** Note: Due to the demands of the role, you must be able to work weekends **
Ready to lead unforgettable events in a truly unique setting?
We’re looking for an experienced, energetic and hands-on Event Operations Manager to take the lead in delivering exceptional commercial events at our stunning historic venue.
From spectacular weddings and glittering award ceremonies to live music performances, corporate showcases, filming and private celebrations, this is your opportunity to shape remarkable experiences in one of the region’s most distinctive event spaces.
Reporting to the Head of Commercial Income, you’ll play a pivotal role in bringing events to life, managing every operational detail and ensuring seamless delivery from planning through to the final guest departure.
This role operates across a 7-day schedule, with shifts predominantly Tuesday to Saturday and including evenings and weekends, reflecting the vibrant and varied nature of our events calendar.
What you’ll be doing
Event Operations & Delivery
You will:
- Lead the operational delivery of all commercial events including weddings, corporate functions, performances, filming and photography.
- Collaborate closely with the Head of Commercial Income and Café & Bar Manager to plan staffing and event logistics.
- Work with clients, caterers and suppliers to ensure smooth planning and exceptional execution.
- Produce detailed event plans and coordinate all stakeholders.
- Act as the senior operational lead during live events, confidently troubleshooting and ensuring flawless delivery.
- Oversee security planning and manage all on-site contractors and suppliers.
Financial & Commercial Focus
You will:
- Support effective budget management, balancing staffing and operational costs.
- Approve timesheets and manage expenditure in line with event margins.
- Contribute ideas and collaborate on new commercial opportunities to grow income and expand the venue’s event portfolio.
Leadership & Team Development
You will:
- Recruit, train and inspire the event delivery team, including the Commercial Events Supervisor and Porter team.
- Create a positive, high-performance culture where collaboration and professionalism thrive.
- Ensure compliance with health & safety, licensing and venue policies.
- Support onboarding and continuous development of event staff.
Health, Safety & Compliance
You will:
- Ensure the venue operates in full compliance with health & safety and licensing regulations.
- Act as Designated Premises Supervisor (or be willing to obtain).
- Oversee First Aid provision during events.
- Serve as Lead Fire Marshal during commercial event delivery.
Duty Management
When acting as Duty Manager, you will:
- Oversee opening and closing procedures to ensure the venue is safe, welcoming and event-ready.
- Lead emergency responses including fire evacuations or medical incidents.
- Manage building issues and coordinate with contractors where required.
- Handle visitor or client concerns professionally and efficiently.
- Support front of house teams and ensure food safety and cash handling procedures are upheld.
Who we’re looking for
Experience
- Proven experience delivering a diverse range of events within hospitality or event environments.
- Strong background in weddings and corporate events such as award ceremonies.
- Experience managing event catering operations.
- Experience leading front of house and operational teams.
- Knowledge of licensing requirements and compliance.
Skills & Attributes
- A confident, solutions-focused leader who thrives under pressure.
- Exceptional organisational and time-management skills.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Skilled in rota planning and contractor management.
- Knowledge of food safety and licensing legislation.
- Flexible and adaptable approach to evenings, weekends and public holidays.
- Personal Licence holder (or willing to obtain).
- Committed to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging.
- Aligned with the values and vision of the venue.
This is more than an operations role. It’s your chance to take centre stage in delivering extraordinary events in a breath-taking historic setting. You’ll have real ownership, the opportunity to shape commercial growth and the satisfaction of seeing events come to life under your leadership.
If you’re passionate about events, thrive in a fast-paced environment and love turning plans into unforgettable experiences, we’d love to hear from you
Hesketh James Recruitment are acting as managing agent on behalf of the client. We are committed to diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all backgrounds. Due to high application volumes, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 72 hours.