At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the day-to-day operations and strategic development of a vibrant entertainment venue.
- Company: 229, a unique independent venue in London, supporting emerging talent and diverse events.
- Benefits: 20 days annual leave, health cash plan, travel loans, and overtime compensation.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for growth and a commitment to inclusivity.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and make a real impact in the live music and events scene.
- Qualifications: Experience in venue management or event management with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
About 229 Established in 2007, 229 is one of London’s unique independent entertainment venues. Hosting an eclectic mix of live music, club nights, comedy, fashion events, gala dinners, festivals and award ceremonies, 229 is renowned for championing both emerging talent and internationally recognised artists. With three licensed event spaces — Venue 1, Venue 2 and The Thirsty Scholar Bar — 229 delivers a culturally diverse programme that reflects the vibrant communities of London and beyond. From grassroots discovery to intimate arena underplays, we pride ourselves on exceptional production, inclusivity and memorable audience experiences. 229 is part of International Students House (ISH), a charity with over 100 years of history supporting students from around the world through accommodation, wellbeing services and financial assistance. Revenue generated by 229 and ISH Venues directly supports this charitable mission.
The Role We are seeking an experienced, passionate and highly organised Venue Manager to lead the day‑to‑day operation and strategic development of 229. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with a genuine love of live music and events, who thrives in a fast‑paced environment and is confident managing venue operations, advancing shows, building industry relationships and delivering exceptional customer experiences. Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Venue Manager will oversee all aspects of venue activity including event delivery, venue operations, sales, marketing, staffing, compliance and financial reconciliation. The successful candidate will also play a key role in developing 229’s in‑house live programme and strengthening relationships with promoters, agents, artists and partners.
Key Responsibilities
- Venue & Event Management
- Manage the successful delivery of all events from pre‑production through to settlement
- Advance shows with promoters, production teams and touring parties
- Oversee venue operations including front of house, box office, cloakroom, bars and security
- Support and manage venue staff and external contractors
- Ensure excellent customer service standards and resolve guest issues professionally
- Brief and debrief staff teams for events
- Maintain high presentation standards across all venue spaces
- Complete event settlements, financial reconciliation and reporting
- Administration & Sales
- Handle venue enquiries, bookings, site visits and diary management
- Work closely with ISH Venues and internal teams to maximise space utilisation and profitability
- Oversee ticketing platforms and customer communications
- Ensure event listings and marketing information are accurate and up to date
- Coordinate staffing rotas for venue, security and technical teams
- Business Development & Marketing
- Identify opportunities to grow revenue and audience engagement
- Support marketing campaigns, promotional activity and social media growth
- Manage Mailchimp databases and promotional communications
- Work with the Assistant Venue Manager and Booker to develop and promote 229’s in‑house events programme
- Finance
- Manage event budgets and mini P&L’s
- Complete settlements, PRS returns and invoicing
- Ensure accurate reconciliation of accounts within deadlines
- Monitor event profitability and operational costs
- Health & Safety & Licensing
- Act as a licensee for venue operations
- Ensure compliance with licensing, health & safety and fire safety regulations
- Liaise with Local Authority, Police and Fire Officers when required
- Report and follow up on maintenance issues promptly
About You
Essential Experience & Skills
- Proven experience as an Assistant Venue Manager, Venue Manager or Event Manager within live music, entertainment or hospitality
- Strong understanding of live events and venue operations
- Experience working with promoters, agents, artists and touring parties
- Demonstrable success delivering high‑profile and high‑value events
- Excellent leadership, communication and organisational skills
- Strong administrative and financial management abilities
- Experience with ticketing systems and venue software
- Excellent customer service and relationship‑building skills
- Ability to remain calm and professional under pressure
- Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and public holidays
Desirable
- Personal Licence holder
- IOSH or equivalent Health & Safety qualification
- First Aid at Work certification
- Experience in sound, lighting or event production
- Understanding of bar operations and SIA/security procedures
Benefits
- 20 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with service up to 25 days
- Christmas shutdown period
- Pension scheme (currently SAUL)
- Company‑sponsored health cash plan after probation
- Interest‑free annual travel card loan after probation
- £3 meal allowance per shift
- Time off in lieu for overtime worked
Working Hours
This role averages 40 hours per week across daytime office hours and evening event shifts. As a seven‑day operation, flexibility is essential, including regular evening and weekend working.
Venue Manager in London employer: International Students House (London)
229 is an exceptional employer that offers a vibrant and inclusive work culture, perfect for those passionate about live music and events. With a commitment to employee growth, staff enjoy benefits such as increasing annual leave, a health cash plan, and opportunities to engage with diverse communities through unique events. Located in the heart of London, 229 not only champions emerging talent but also supports a charitable mission through its operations, making it a rewarding place to work.
Contact Details:
International Students House (London) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Venue Manager in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, gigs, and meet-ups to connect with people in the live music scene. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for live events! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your experiences and what excites you about managing venues. Your enthusiasm can set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on places that resonate with you, like 229! Tailor your approach to highlight how your skills align with their mission of supporting emerging talent and creating memorable experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your appreciation and keeping you top of mind. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate your excitement about the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Venue Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your love for live music and events shine through. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about creating memorable experiences for our audience.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in venue management or event coordination. We’re looking for specific examples of how you’ve successfully managed events or built relationships in the industry, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your skills and experiences are easy to read and understand. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role!
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’re considered for the Venue Manager position at 229. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at International Students House (London)
✨Know Your Venue Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you research 229 thoroughly. Familiarise yourself with its history, the types of events it hosts, and its mission to support students through ISH. This knowledge will show your genuine interest and help you connect your experience to their values.
✨Showcase Your Event Management Skills
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed events. Highlight your ability to handle everything from pre-production to settlement, and be ready to discuss how you resolved any challenges that arose during those events.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Teamwork
As a Venue Manager, you'll need to lead a team effectively. Be prepared to talk about your leadership style and how you motivate and manage staff. Share instances where you've built strong relationships with team members or external partners to enhance event success.
✨Emphasise Customer Experience
Exceptional customer service is key at 229. Think of examples where you've gone above and beyond to ensure a great experience for guests. Discuss how you handle guest issues professionally and maintain high presentation standards across venue spaces.
