At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage exciting conference and banqueting events at a prestigious venue.
- Company: Join the iconic Kia Oval, home of Surrey County Cricket Club.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, and health perks.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with great career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team creating memorable experiences for clients.
- Qualifications: Experience in hospitality management and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We're seeking a confident Conference and Banqueting Manager with a background in hands-on hospitality 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 banqueting events 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.
Responsibilities
- Oversee the smooth running of all conference and banqueting event 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 built-in 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 a culture of sustainability first, ensuring a proactive approach to waste, electricity usage and a 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.
Qualifications
- 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.
Benefits
- 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.
We believe in celebrating individuality and building inclusive teams where everyone feels they belong. 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.
Conference & Banqueting Events Manager - London in City of Westminster employer: Equipment Sales & Service Limited.
At The Kia Oval, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values collaboration and inclusivity. As a Conference & Banqueting Events Manager, you will enjoy competitive benefits, including generous annual leave, healthcare support, and opportunities for professional development, all while working in one of London's most iconic venues. Join us to be part of a team that not only delivers outstanding service but also fosters personal growth and celebrates individuality.
Contact Details:
Equipment Sales & Service Limited. Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Conference & Banqueting Events Manager - London in City of Westminster
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
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✨Reach Out Directly to Equipment Sales & Service Limited.
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We think you need these skills to ace Conference & Banqueting Events Manager - London in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Equipment Sales & Service Limited. and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Equipment Sales & Service Limited.
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
