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 cultural diversity.
- Benefits: 20 days annual leave, health cash plan, pension scheme, and meal allowance.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with opportunities for career growth in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and make a real impact in the live 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 most 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&Ls
- 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
- Personal Licence Holder
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and public holidays
Desirable
- 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.
If you are passionate about live events, thrive in a dynamic environment and want to be part of an independent venue with a strong cultural and charitable mission, we’d love to hear from you.
Venue Manager employer: INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS HOUSE
229 is an exceptional employer that offers a vibrant work culture centred around live music and events, making it an ideal place for passionate individuals to thrive. With a commitment to inclusivity and community support through its charitable mission, employees benefit from generous annual leave, a pension scheme, and opportunities for professional growth in a dynamic environment. Working at 229 means being part of a unique venue that champions both emerging talent and established artists, all while contributing to a meaningful cause.
Contact Details:
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS HOUSE Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Venue Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, gigs, and meet-ups to connect with people in the live music scene. You never know who might be looking for a Venue Manager or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your love for live events shine through. Share your experiences and what excites you about managing a venue like 229.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see an event or gig that interests you, reach out to the organisers. Express your interest in helping out or learning more about their operations. It’s a great way to get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who take the initiative to apply directly. Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and how you can contribute to the vibrant community at 229.
We think you need these skills to ace Venue Manager
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 someone who understands the ins and outs of live events, so don’t be shy about showcasing your skills and achievements!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your writing is easy to read and free from jargon. This will help us get a quick sense of who you are and what you bring to the table.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the 229 team!
How to prepare for a job interview at INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS HOUSE
✨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. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with the venue's values.
✨Showcase Your Event Management Skills
Prepare specific examples from your past experience where you've successfully managed events. Highlight your ability to handle everything from pre-production to settlement, as well as how you’ve dealt with challenges during events. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills.
✨Emphasise Relationship Building
Since the role involves working closely with promoters, artists, and other stakeholders, be ready to discuss how you've built and maintained professional relationships in the past. Share stories that illustrate your communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to venue operations or customer service. Think about how you would handle difficult guests or unexpected issues during an event. Practising these scenarios can help you respond confidently and showcase your leadership abilities.
