Operations Manager - Events & Sales

First Rail is one of the UK's most experienced rail operators, carrying more than 345m passengers across our franchises (Great Western Railway, South Western Railway, and Avanti West Coast) and our open access operators (Hull Trains and Lumo). We operate all types of passenger railways - intercity, commuter, regional and sleeper services. The IFS Cloud Cable Car combines transport with a visitor attraction, linking North Greenwich Peninsular and the Royal Docks.

This role is responsible for driving event revenue while ensuring seamless execution of events from planning to delivery. This role involves managing the full sales cycle, from generating leads and securing bookings to coordinating logistics and overseeing on-the-day operations. The manager works closely with clients to tailor event experiences, ensuring high levels of satisfaction while maintaining operational efficiency and profitability. Additionally, they collaborate with internal teams and external suppliers to uphold quality standards, health and safety compliance, and brand reputation.

Your main responsibilities will be:

• Event Sales & Business Development: Drive event sales by identifying new business opportunities and managing the full sales cycle, from lead generation to contract negotiation. Develop and maintain relationships with corporate clients, travel trade partners, and key stakeholders to maximize bookings and revenue. Create tailored event packages to enhance the customer experience and increase sales. Develop and implement a sound and comprehensive event sales strategy for the Attraction from scratch. Develop and support in the evolution of the attractions seasonal campaign offerings for guests, including Christmas, Easter, and Halloween.
• Event Planning & Coordination: Oversee the end-to-end planning of private and corporate events, ensuring smooth execution. Work closely with clients to understand their requirements and deliver customized event solutions. Coordinate with internal teams and external suppliers to ensure all logistical and operational needs are met.
• Operational Execution & On-the-Day Management: Lead the delivery of events, ensuring all elements run smoothly and to the highest standard. Manage operations team and temporary agency colleagues, brief teams on event-specific requirements, and ensure a seamless guest experience. Handle any on-the-day challenges, making real-time decisions to maintain service quality and customer satisfaction.
• Financial & Performance Management: Monitor event revenue, budgets, and profitability, ensuring financial targets are met. Track and analyse event performance, using data and client feedback to refine offerings and improve future events. Ensure all invoicing, payment processes, and financial documentation are handled accurately and efficiently.
• Health, Safety & Compliance: Ensure all events comply with health and safety regulations, licensing requirements, and company policies. Conduct risk assessments and implement necessary measures to maintain a safe environment for guests and staff. Liaise with regulatory bodies as required to ensure full compliance with industry standards.
• Marketing & Brand Collaboration: Work alongside the TfL Marketing team to promote event packages and special experiences at the London Cable Car. Develop promotional campaigns, sales materials, and partnerships to attract new business. Represent the London Cable Car at networking events, trade shows, and industry conferences to enhance brand awareness and drive sales.

You’ll need to be:

• Strong sales and business development skills, with a proven track record in securing event bookings and driving revenue.
• Excellent event planning and coordination abilities, ensuring seamless execution from start to finish.
• Strong operational management skills, with experience overseeing event logistics and on-the-day delivery.
• Exceptional customer service and client relationship management skills, ensuring high levels of guest satisfaction.
• Ability to negotiate contracts and pricing to maximize profitability while maintaining competitive offerings.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience directing event staff and working with cross-functional teams.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities, particularly in fast-paced, high-pressure event environments.
• High attention to detail and strong organisational skills.
• Good understanding of health and safety regulations and risk management in event operations.
• Strong financial acumen, with the ability to manage budgets, track sales performance, and ensure cost control.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

As a minimum, you will need to have:

• Degree or equivalent experience in Events Management, Hospitality, Business, or a related field (desirable).
• Proven experience in event sales and operations, ideally within a visitor attraction, hospitality, or tourism setting.
• Experience working with corporate clients, travel trade, and event agencies is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of marketing and promotional strategies for event sales.
• Familiarity with licensing, health & safety regulations, and venue compliance requirements.

About the location: London Cable Car, North Greenwich. Occasional travel to other UK locations as appropriate.

Working pattern: This role follows a five-day workweek, primarily Monday to Friday. However, weekend shifts will be required to support event operations and key attraction events, including New Year's Eve and other major occasions.