Head of Information Technology - Co-op Live

Head of Information Technology - Co-op Live

Manchester Full-Time 60000 - 84000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead IT at the UK's largest live entertainment arena, shaping tech for unforgettable fan experiences.
  • Company: Co-op Live is a premier venue attracting top talent and events, committed to community and sustainability.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, private healthcare, team socials, and a supportive work-life balance.
  • Why this job: Join a passionate team driving innovation in live entertainment and make a real impact.
  • Qualifications: Seeking a tech-savvy leader with strong communication skills and experience in IT infrastructure.
  • Other info: Flexibility required for evenings and weekends; diverse candidates encouraged to apply.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.

About the Venue

We connect with upto 23,500 fans per show, Co-op Live continues to attract world-class talent and events, drawing comparisons to and surpassing the world’s greatest live entertainment venues in show programming, sound, fan experience, premium hospitality, food and beverage, and more. The UK’s largest live entertainment arena is driven by a dedicated team of music and live event lovers, passionate about offering every visitor, fan, artist, and partner an unrivalled experience, before, during and after every event, as well as giving back to our local community and our planet.

Partnership is at our heart, with Co-op Live excelling through meaningful alliances with the likes of naming rights partner Co-op, united by a joint vision to be the very best. The first venue in the UK for owners and operators Oak View Group (OVG), Co-op Live spearheads expansion into Europe and rest of world, a jewel in the crown of a globally renowned portfolio.

Role Purpose

Ready to lead IT at the UK’s biggest live entertainment arena ?

We’re on the hunt for a bold, strategic, and hands-on Head of IT to help shape the future of live entertainment. At Co-op Live , we’re not just building a venue, we’re creating a next-generation fan experience . This is your chance to drive innovation, sustainability, and performance in one of the most ambitious entertainment projects in the country.

Responsibilities

As our Head of IT, you’ll be the driving force behind every tech touchpoint across the arena — from backstage to box office. You\’ll roll up your sleeves and lead the delivery of all IT services, setting the vision and roadmap for the future. Whether it’s building a seamless event day experience, leading a high-performing team, or working hand-in-hand with partners and venue teams, you’ll make sure technology helps us stand out for all the right reasons. Innovation, strategy, and strong operational delivery will be your daily rhythm.

What Co-op Live will give to you

Alongside the benefit of working with an awesome team of talented people, we want to help you get the best out of your work and have a work life balance.

  • Provide you with development opportunities and regular one to ones
  • Key objectives for you to succeed in your role
  • Your general wellbeing is at the forefront of our minds, we understand the importance of balancing work and personal commitments
  • This is an office base role, it’s really important we work together to mobilise the biggest music and live entertainment arena in the UK.

Salary: £70,000 – £80,000 per annum dependent on experience + Benefits

Please note this role is working 5 days out of 7 covering evenings and weekends, therefore flexibility is required.

  • 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
  • Employer pension scheme
  • Private Health Care scheme – Vitality
  • Life Assurance 4 x basic salary
  • Eyecare vouchers
  • WeCare Employee Assistance Programme to support you and your family 24hrs, 7 days per week when you need the service
  • Company sick pay scheme
  • Enhanced family friendly benefits
  • Office refreshments and breakfast items
  • Team social events

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

You\’ll be a passionate leader with a sharp technical mind and a knack for turning big ideas into real-world results. You know your way around complex IT infrastructure, networks, and service delivery — and you’re just as comfortable managing budgets as you are mentoring people. With excellent communication skills and a collaborative approach, you’ll influence at all levels and build positive partnerships inside and outside the venue. Bonus points if you bring arena, AV, or entertainment experience to the stage.

Our Inclusion Commitments

Our venue is for the fans, the artists, everyone! Attracting a diverse workforce which reflects our local community is what will make our venue the best music venue in the UK!

We understand that to continue positively disrupting the sports and live entertainment industry, we need a diverse team to help us do it. We also believe that inclusivity drives innovation, strengthens ourpeople , improves ourservice , and raises ourexcellence .Weare committed to creatinga great placeto work amplifying voices from alldifferent backgrounds. There is something for everyone at Co-op Live,come and getinvolved.

If you do require anyadditionalsupport or reasonable adjustments to support your application, please let us know and we will work with you to ensure you have everything you need.We will consider applications from all candidates who are able todemonstratethe required skills necessary to fulfil the role.

Employee Screening and Eligibility to Work

We recognise the importance of safeguarding, dependent on role you may be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service Check, details of which will be shared with you at interview.

If successful in your application, you will be required to provide eligibility to work evidence in line with the ‘Eligibility to Work in the UK’ requirements.

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Head of Information Technology - Co-op Live employer: Oak View Group United Kingdom | Co-op Live | Rhubarb Hospitality

Co-op Live is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and development. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, the Head of IT will lead a passionate team in shaping the future of live entertainment while enjoying benefits such as private healthcare, generous holiday allowances, and opportunities for personal growth. Located in the heart of the UK's largest live entertainment arena, employees are part of a dynamic environment that values diversity and community engagement.
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Contact Detail:

Oak View Group United Kingdom | Co-op Live | Rhubarb Hospitality Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Information Technology - Co-op Live

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in live entertainment technology. Understanding innovations in AV systems, ticketing software, and fan engagement tools will help you stand out as a candidate who is not only passionate but also knowledgeable about the industry.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the live events sector. Attend industry conferences or local meetups to connect with people who work in similar roles. This can provide you with insights into the challenges they face and how you can position yourself as a solution.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your leadership skills by discussing past experiences where you successfully managed teams or projects. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you drove innovation and improved operational efficiency in previous roles.

✨Tip Number 4

Research Co-op Live and its mission. Understanding their commitment to sustainability and community engagement will allow you to tailor your discussions during interviews, demonstrating that you align with their values and vision for the future.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Information Technology - Co-op Live

Leadership Skills
Technical Expertise in IT Infrastructure
Network Management
Service Delivery Management
Budget Management
Project Management
Excellent Communication Skills
Collaboration and Partnership Building
Problem-Solving Skills
Strategic Thinking
Innovation and Creativity
Experience in AV or Entertainment Technology
Flexibility and Adaptability
Team Mentoring and Development

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in IT leadership, particularly in live entertainment or similar sectors. Emphasise your technical skills and any previous roles where you managed complex IT infrastructures.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for live entertainment and how your vision aligns with Co-op Live's goals. Mention specific examples of how you've driven innovation and performance in past roles.

Showcase Leadership Skills: Highlight your leadership style and experience in managing teams. Provide examples of how you've mentored others and fostered collaboration, as these are key aspects of the role.

Demonstrate Cultural Fit: Co-op Live values diversity and inclusivity. In your application, reflect on how you can contribute to a positive workplace culture and support the venue's commitment to community engagement.

How to prepare for a job interview at Oak View Group United Kingdom | Co-op Live | Rhubarb Hospitality

✨Show Your Passion for Live Entertainment

Make sure to express your enthusiasm for live events and the entertainment industry. Co-op Live is all about creating unforgettable experiences, so sharing your personal connection to music or events can help you stand out.

✨Demonstrate Your Technical Expertise

Be prepared to discuss your experience with complex IT infrastructures and service delivery. Highlight specific projects where you've successfully implemented technology solutions that enhanced user experiences or operational efficiency.

✨Emphasise Leadership and Team Collaboration

As a Head of IT, you'll need to lead a team effectively. Share examples of how you've mentored others, built high-performing teams, and fostered collaboration across departments to achieve common goals.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them, especially in high-pressure environments like live events.

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