At a Glance
- Tasks: Plan and deliver exciting, high-profile events while leading dynamic teams.
- Company: Join Absolute Taste, a culinary innovator redefining customer experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive culture, career growth, and the thrill of event management.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities to work on prestigious events.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of creating memorable events that inspire and impress.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and experience in event management are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Who Are Absolute Taste and What Do We Do? We are an innovative culinary and customer service provider, dedicated to delivering inspirational food and experiences that redefine customer satisfaction. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for pushing boundaries, we continue to grow from strength to strength.
As a small, dynamic team of event professionals, we specialise in creating exciting, well‑managed, and sustainable events while fostering strong working relationships. We’re looking for individuals who share our fun, resilient, and hardworking values to join our supportive, high‑performing team. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a highly‑regarded organisation dedicated to success and a positive, empowering culture.
About the Role: As an Event Manager, you’ll play a central role in planning, coordinating, and delivering some of Absolute Taste’s largest and most prestigious events. You will work closely with internal teams, clients, and suppliers to ensure every detail is executed to the highest standard. This role requires exceptional organisation, strong leadership, and the ability to thrive in fast‑paced, high‑pressure environments. You will be a key point of contact for major clients, lead on‑site teams, and ensure that every event reflects our commitment to quality, creativity, and outstanding hospitality.
Location: Bicester, Oxfordshire
Key Responsibilities:
- Support the Project Lead in planning and delivering Silverstone Hilton, a major event hosting 5,220+ guests over 4 days (approx. 50% of the role).
- Plan and deliver all aspects of Salon Privé London and Salon Privé Blenheim, two premium events held over 5 and 3 days respectively (approx. 40% of the role).
- Assist the Operations Director with ad‑hoc quotes and events (approx. 10% of the role).
- Ensure all Absolute Taste events meet our exacting standards of quality and service.
- Act as a key client contact for senior stakeholders across event portfolios.
- Provide leadership across all event functions, motivating and directing teams both pre‑event and onsite.
- Communicate progress clearly and transparently to internal and external stakeholders.
- Manage on‑site teams, scaling leadership to suit event size and complexity.
- Support sourcing, managing, and controlling third‑party suppliers and Absolute Taste assets.
- Identify and implement operational efficiencies across food COS, supplier networks, and resources.
- Lead regular event updates, project planning meetings, and maintain key planning documents.
- Collaborate with Culinary, Logistics, and Staffing teams to ensure seamless operational delivery.
- Contribute to menu development and operational planning alongside Project and Culinary Leads.
- Ensure staffing levels and budgets are aligned with event requirements.
- Bring strong event catering experience; greenfield catering experience is desirable.
Budget & Finance:
- Maintain a full understanding of event budgets, cost centres, and client financial structures.
- Work with Finance and Project Leads to forecast, track spend, and manage budgets throughout the project lifecycle.
- Support invoicing.
Event Manager in Bicester employer: Absolute Taste Ltd
At Absolute Taste, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in the stunning environment of the River Thames. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our extensive training programmes and generous benefits, including 33 days of holiday and a life assurance scheme, all while fostering a collaborative and creative work culture that values culinary excellence and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Event Manager in Bicester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, workshops, and meet-ups to connect with other event professionals. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your past events, including photos, testimonials, and any metrics that highlight your success. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to companies you admire, like Absolute Taste, and express your interest in working with them. A personal touch can make all the difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep it real during interviews! Be yourself and let your passion for event management shine through. Share your experiences and how you’ve tackled challenges in the past – it’s all about showing you’re the right fit for their dynamic team.
We think you need these skills to ace Event Manager in Bicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for event management shine through! We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about creating amazing experiences and pushing boundaries in the culinary world.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Event Manager role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in managing large events or working with high-profile clients. We love seeing how your past roles have prepared you for this exciting opportunity!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see your key achievements and skills. Remember, we’re looking for exceptional organisation, so show us you can communicate effectively!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen to be part of our team at Absolute Taste!
How to prepare for a job interview at Absolute Taste Ltd
✨Know Your Events Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into Absolute Taste's past events. Familiarise yourself with their style, scale, and unique elements. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you discuss how your experience aligns with their vision.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Event Manager, you'll need to lead teams effectively. Prepare examples of how you've motivated and directed teams in previous roles, especially in high-pressure situations. Highlight your ability to communicate clearly and manage diverse groups.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical event scenarios. Think about how you would handle challenges like last-minute changes or supplier issues. Practising these responses can demonstrate your problem-solving skills and adaptability.
✨Emphasise Your Budget Management Experience
Since managing budgets is crucial for this role, be prepared to discuss your experience with financial planning and tracking. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed budgets in past events, ensuring you highlight any cost-saving measures you implemented.
