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- Tasks: Lead and manage events at The Kia Oval, ensuring exceptional service and smooth operations.
- Company: Join Levy, a top global hospitality partner, at the iconic Kia Oval.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, healthcare, 23 days' leave, and more perks.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team creating unforgettable experiences in a vibrant venue.
- Qualifications: Experience in events or hospitality management and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for career growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 42000 £ per year.
This job is brought to you by Jobs/Redefined, the UK's leading over-50s age inclusive jobs board.
Job Introduction
Conference and Banqueting Manager - The Kia Oval | Full-Time / Permanent £35,000 + excellent benefits including healthcare, wellbeing support, 23 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, life assurance, meals on duty, and more.
We're seeking a confident and organised Conference and Banqueting Manager to join our collaborative team at The Kia Oval - the iconic home of Surrey County Cricket Club and one of the best conference venues in London!
In this fast-paced role you will be responsible for overseeing the smooth running of all conference and events catering, hospitality, and bar operations, ensuring exceptional service and attention to detail across match day and non-match day conferences and events.
We are Levy. Levy is about elevating experiences. We are a leading global hospitality partner, designing and delivering unforgettable guest moments that prioritise people and the planet.
Our mission is to succeed the right way. From pioneering tech and seamless operations to show-stopping menus and exceptional service, we use insight and innovation to understand guests, improve the customer journey, reduce environmental impact, and support local communities.
We are a passionate, diverse team of venue specialists dedicated to making the planet better for future generations.
Conference and Banqueting Manager - the role
- Operations & Event Delivery
- Oversee the smooth running of all C&E operations, ensuring exceptional service and attention to detail across every event.
- Work closely with the Sales team to review client requirements, attend site visits, and confirm operational details.
- Partner with the Culinary team to maintain outstanding food presentation and service standards.
- Lead weekly function sheet meetings to align internal teams on event plans.
- Produce staff rotas in collaboration with the Head of C&E, ensuring labour costs are monitored and controlled.
- Maintain a strong working knowledge of in-built AV systems; train Event Managers/Supervisors and liaise with suppliers to order additional equipment when required.
- Coordinate with the reception team to ensure event signage, paperwork, and administrative materials are prepared and distributed in advance.
- Monitor till operations, oversee bar closures, and ensure the secure handling of cash and stock.
- Oversee all catering setups, working closely with the logistics team to ensure events are set according to function sheets and SOPs.
- Maintain stock levels and ensure all catering equipment is in good working order, arranging repairs or replacements as needed.
- Team Leadership
- Manage and support a team of Managers and Supervisors, providing clear pre-event briefings and post-event feedback.
- Assist with the induction, training, and development of team members, ensuring high levels of service and operational efficiency.
- Promote a positive, collaborative working culture across all departments.
- Client & Guest Experience
- Welcome event organisers and clients, ensuring their needs are met from initial planning to delivery.
- Provide cover or oversight for the OEL reception, ensuring guests and clients are greeted professionally, queries are handled efficiently, and reception operations run smoothly.
- Act as the main operational point of contact on event days, quickly resolving any issues or last-minute requests.
- Build strong, lasting relationships with clients, encouraging repeat business and positive feedback.
- Health, Safety & The Environment
- Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and legal regulations.
- Contribute to regular health and safety meetings and maintain accurate training records.
- Lead by example in promoting a safe working environment for staff, clients, and guests.
- Promote the Levy culture of sustainability first, ensuring a proactive approach to wastage, electricity usage and our 2027 net zero promise.
- Financial & Administrative Management
- Identify operational improvements and cost-saving opportunities without compromising service standards.
- Monitor and manage labour scheduling, addressing variances between forecast and actual spend.
- Take ownership of all operational costs under your management, ensuring profitability targets are met.
- Support business improvement initiatives as part of the senior management team.
What we're looking for
- Proven experience in conference, events, or hospitality management.
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Excellent communication and client relationship abilities, with experience developing meaningful client relationships.
- Organised, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and match days.
What you'll get in return
- Competitive salary with bonus and full company benefits.
- 23 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, your birthday off, and a holiday purchase scheme.
- Healthcare & wellbeing: Aviva Digicare, Medicash (dental, optical, therapy treatments).
- Mental health support: 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
- Family benefits: 2 days' additional leave after returning from maternity leave, day off for your baby's first birthday, enhanced family leave.
- Perks & discounts: Shopping, entertainment, and travel discounts, 20% off Nuffield Health and 10% off PureGym memberships.
- Financial wellbeing: Pension scheme, Life Assurance, preferred rates on salary finance products.
- Development opportunities: Professional subscriptions, ongoing training and structured career pathways.
- Meals on duty included.
Why Join Us?
Levy UK & Ireland is part of Compass Group, the world's largest catering company, and a vibrant leader in hospitality. We believe in celebrating individuality and building inclusive teams where everyone feels they belong. Our diverse team fuels creativity, innovation, and excellence. We are an equal opportunities employer. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join us in creating a supportive, empowering workplace where everyone can thrive. Together, we create unforgettable experiences - and shape the future of hospitality.
Conference and Banqueting Manager - The Kia Oval in London employer: Compass Group UK & Ireland
Contact Detail:
Compass Group UK & Ireland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Conference and Banqueting Manager - The Kia Oval in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, connect with people on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to former colleagues. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with your own. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable with common questions. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel when it’s time to shine in front of the real interviewers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Conference and Banqueting Manager - The Kia Oval in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Conference and Banqueting Manager role. Highlight your experience in hospitality management and any relevant skills that match the job description. We want to see how you can bring your unique flair to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your previous experiences have prepared you for it. Be sure to mention specific examples that demonstrate your leadership and organisational skills.
Show Off Your Communication Skills: As a Conference and Banqueting Manager, communication is key! In your application, make sure to showcase your ability to build relationships with clients and team members. We love candidates who can convey their ideas clearly and effectively.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status. Plus, we love seeing applications come through our own platform!
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group UK & Ireland
✨Know Your Venue
Before the interview, do your homework on The Kia Oval. Familiarise yourself with its history, key events, and what makes it a top venue for conferences and banquets. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect your experience to their unique offerings.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Conference and Banqueting Manager, you'll need strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in high-pressure situations, particularly during events. Highlight your ability to motivate staff and ensure exceptional service.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
This role requires meticulous attention to detail. Be ready to discuss specific instances where your organisational skills made a difference in event planning or execution. Mention how you’ve handled logistics, client requests, or any last-minute changes effectively.
✨Emphasise Client Relationships
Building strong relationships with clients is crucial. Prepare to share stories about how you've developed meaningful connections with clients in past roles. Discuss how you ensured their needs were met and how you encouraged repeat business through excellent service.
